James Harrison
James successfully completed the APS MCC at VA Airline Training and is now flying the Boeing 737 with Ryanair
James in the Boeing 737 simulator at VA Airline Training during his APS MCC
What inspired you to pursue a career as a commercial pilot?
My inspiration to become a pilot stems from my grandfather, who worked for BAE Systems as a chemist. Through his work, I received photos from test flights, jet models, and tickets to air shows. This sparked a lifelong love for aviation, with my first flight at age 10! This was further solidified by my studies in Geography and Urban Planning, where I recognised the critical role of air travel in our interconnected urbanised world.
What did you do before starting pilot training?
Before starting my flight training, I earned a BSc in Geography from Lancaster University and an MSc in Urban Planning from the University of Manchester. I then pursued a career in large-scale property development, followed by a short stint as a Transport Consultant at a multinational consultancy firm.
Which training route did you choose to follow, and why?
I originally began on the Flybe MPL. However, due to multiple factors, including Covid, Brexit and the ultimate demise of Flybe, I moved onto the modular route. This ultimately provided much more flexibility in an uncertain environment, whilst also providing a more secure qualification than the MPL would have been without the Flybe sponsorship.
What challenges did you face before or during training?
Where to begin? My sponsored airline went bust, my PPL school shut down, and lockdown started on the day of my first solo navigation. Brexit halted my hour-building due to aircraft registration restrictions, and I had to wait 90 days to collect my EASA license because of Schengen restrictions. Then there’s the usual weather and aircraft issues. You name it, I’ve faced it over the last few years. Despite it all, these challenges have made the journey more eventful and memorable, with each bump in the road adding to the adventure.
What were the highlights of your time in training?
Other than the three glorious weeks at VA, being put through my paces by some great instructors, I would have to say the highlights have been hour-building in California, completing my UPRT and, of course, finishing base training and flying the 737 for the first time.
How did the competencies you developed during your APS MCC help you afterwards?
The APS MCC at VA provided the perfect introduction to the airline world, laying a substantial foundation for understanding the 737NG and preparing me for the true extent of multi-crew cooperation required during type-rating. The core competencies, which are fundamental to multi-pilot operations, were emphasised and developed during this training. This preparation enabled me to pass the airline assessment on the first attempt with confidence and conviction in my ability in a calm and collected manner. Moreover, these competencies have greatly aided me with the type rating at Ryanair, where they are consistently mirrored and assessed every time I step into an aircraft or simulator.
James and his sim partner Alessandro during the APS MCC. Both are now flying with Ryanair.
What have been the highlights since you started airline flying?
Base training has certainly been the highlight for me so far. Due to weather and other issues, I had to wait a significant period between the type rating and base training. When it finally came along at East Midlands Airport, I was nervous but ready. Both the Captain and First Officer on the day were a great help, keeping me calm and collected, and offering encouragement and advice throughout. After just under an hour, my circuits were complete, and I got to sit back and enjoy the next cadet's turn, knowing that after years of trials and tribulations, I had finally accomplished my dream.
What advice would you give to someone about to start APS MCC training?
Don't worry too much, enjoy the process and be sure to utilise the instructors, cockpit mock-ups and any other aids you may have. It's a tough and intense three weeks, but incredibly rewarding and a great platform to launch from into airline assessments.