View from the cockpit - Spring 2026

“Taking on the role of unit chief pilot at DSAA is both an honour and a responsibility that I approach with genuine excitement and a healthy dose of humility.

I am very conscious that I follow in the footsteps of Mario, whose leadership, professionalism, and calm authority have helped shape the operation we are today. Long before either of us became civilians, I had the privilege of working for Mario in the Royal Navy - an experience shared by several of our captains, and it is fair to say that many of the standards, habits, and expectations we still hold today were forged during those years. I know I speak for many when I say how grateful we are for his contribution.

I am particularly thankful that Mario will remain with us as a line pilot for the coming year. Having his experience, perspective, and quiet reassurance during this transition will make an enormous difference, not least to me, and I am delighted that our crews will continue to benefit from his presence in the cockpit. It also means that I can still ask the occasional awkward question with some confidence that the answer will be sensible.

I joined DSAA just over five years ago, following a varied career path that included the Royal Navy and VVIP operations in the Middle East. Each chapter brought its own lessons; leadership under pressure, teamwork in demanding environments, and the importance of trust when the stakes are high. What I did not fully appreciate at the time, was how perfectly those experiences would align with the unique world of air ambulance operations. DSAA has a way of demanding the very best of you, while reminding you daily why you chose this profession in the first place.

I would like to thank the charity and Gama Aviation for placing their trust in me at this pivotal moment. The opportunity to help lead an operation that supports exceptional pilots, will operate two helicopters, and is preparing for the development of a new base is not something I take lightly. For me, it feels like the natural crescendo of a career built on accumulated experience, hard-earned lessons, and a genuine love of operational flying.

That said, this role is very much about people. It’s about supporting a talented and committed pilot group, maintaining high standards, and making sure the aviation side of the organisation continues to quietly and reliably enable the life-saving work that DSAA does every day. It’s also about listening, learning, and remembering that no one ever stops being a student in this job.

I am immensely proud to step into this role and excited about the future of DSAA. With a strong team, a solid foundation laid by Mario and others before me, and continued support from the charity and Gama Aviation, I relish the challenges that lie ahead.”