Operating an aircraft is far from a typical 9-to-5 job, with irregular hours and flight schedules spanning all times of the day. Yet for one pilot, regardless of the hour, there is a consistent ritual he performs before every flight.
The Pre-Flight Ritual Revealed
Waiting at the airport and spotting a cabin crew member or pilot confidently striding through the terminal in their pristine uniform and perfectly packed travel bag can often leave the average passenger feeling awestruck. It is akin to spotting a celebrity for the first time or seeing someone you shouldn't. This curiosity about the people who take to the skies for a living, calling a plane their office while cruising at 41,000 feet, is natural.
Offering an insight into a pilot's life, Tom Copestake disclosed what he does before every flight, whether departing in the early hours of the morning or late at night. Tom, a Wizz Air pilot for four years, has flown thousands of passengers on over 750 flights, visiting more than 50 countries. Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, he revealed: "Sometimes my alarm goes off at 3am or sometimes I'm not starting work until 6pm in the evening. But no matter what, whenever I get to the airport, the first thing I always do is get a vanilla latte and an almond croissant. It somehow resets my mind to say, 'ok, this is the start of my work day.' It's the first thing I do, and I think an airport ritual isn't a bad idea."
Enjoying the View
The airport is not the only place where Tom, based at London Luton Airport, can enjoy this tasty treat. "We have some early starts, but having a cup of coffee and a croissant, going over the Alps, with this fabulous view in front of me, nothing beats it." While taking in the incredible vistas, Tom added: "There are parts of the earth that we look down on that no one has ever walked on - it's really cool. The way it makes you feel really small, but insignificant somehow. Looking down at this expanse of snow and mountains or sand and desert, but it's the most exhilarating feeling, I love it."
A Privileged Job
Sharing a closer insight into his job, Tom acknowledged: "This is a customer service job that happens to be in the aviation industry, and I love the fact that each of the thousands of passengers I've flown has a story and a reason to travel. It might be for fun, to see family, or we have people who might be working in different countries. It's really cool, and I love that so much." He humbly added: "This job is a privilege."
For more information on Wizz Air flights, or to book your next getaway, visit its website. Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com.
