Flying dreams to flight deck: Mentoring the next generation of Qantas pilots

From backyard flight games to flying jets for Qantas, this pilot shares how his childhood dream took flight — and how he’s now helping the next generation of pilots through a successful mentoring program.

A lifelong dream, sparked early

I've wanted to be a pilot since before I can remember. My mum says I used to run around the backyard with a toy plane in hand, making flying noises. Now, I think of that every time I see my two-and-a-half-year-old son doing the same.

First flight at eight

I flew my first plane at eight years old, thanks to a family friend who was a flight instructor. That moment set everything in motion.

Helping new pilots take off

Over the past year, I’ve been part of a team setting up the Qantas pilot mentoring program. With so many new pilots joining every month, it’s important they feel supported from day one. I meet with each intake, do a short presentation, and match every new recruit with an experienced Qantas pilot who volunteers their time. Once the training is done, the recruits even get to fly a trip with their mentor.

More than mentoring — real connection

It’s been a huge success. From the mentors’ perspective, it’s incredibly rewarding — and many of the pairs go on to form real friendships. Some still catch up weekly.

Flying with purpose, surrounded by great people

The Qantas network is exciting — I get to fly to places like Queenstown, the Pacific Islands and across Australia. But what makes this job truly special is the people. The culture, the support, the camaraderie — that’s what I love most.

James Dale, 737 First Officer