STAR FLYER Travel like a local with these handy tips from a Fiji Airways insider
HENRY PATTERSON A330 FIRST OFFICER
BEST THING ABOUT BEING A PILOT The travelling. I enjoy exploring the different cities on our routes. ON THE MOST CHALLENGING THING ABOUT BEING A PILOT Adapting to a different time zone and acclimating. FAVOURITE DESTINATION TO VISIT OUTSIDE FIJI I consider LA home away from home because I know the place quite well now, and there’s always so much to do. I enjoy the little beachside cafés, bars and restaurants that run along Manhattan Beach. They have a great vibe, and a more relaxed atmosphere. If I have a few days’ layover in LA, I like to rent a car and drive around the city taking in all the sights, finding new places to check out and of course do a little shopping. WHY FIJI WILL ALWAYS BE HOME In all my travels, I have come to appreciate Fiji even more. Fiji’s tropical beauty, the friendliness of the people, and our way of life is truly unique and not something I take for granted.
In this edition of High Flyer, we chat to Henry Patterson, one of our A330 First Officers who moonlights as a travel photographer when he’s not flying a plane. We talk travel, finding a home away from home in Los Angeles, and what makes flying so fascinating even after six and a half years.
FAVOURITE SPOT/PLACE IN FIJI Visiting the old capital - Levuka.
FAVOURITE SUPERHERO Thor.
THREE TRAVEL ESSENTIALS My phone, a light jacket, and comfortable sneakers.
ON UNWINDING AFTER A HECTIC WORK WEEK It’s the simple pleasures. I like catching up with family and friends. I also love watching sports, especially rugby and the NBA.
PERSONAL TRAVEL TIPS Staying well hydrated and getting adequate rest before a flight. ON THE MOST INTERESTING EXPERIENCE AT WORK It would be the first time I experienced an automatic landing on the Airbus. Just the fact that a 180 tonne aircraft approaching the runway at around 140 knots (260km/hr) can touchdown on its own is nothing short of amazing for me.
IF NOT FLYING THEN… I love my career and wouldn’t change it, but if I wasn’t flying, I’d give sailing a go. ADVICE FOR THOSE WISHING TO JOIN THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY The aviation industry is exciting and ever changing, with no two days being the same. If a sense of adventure is what you’re seeking, join the airline industry.
PERSONAL WORK MANTRA/PHILOSOPHY Appreciation for the opportunity I have by putting in the work, always having a willingness to learn and taking advice from fellow colleagues.
FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: A majestic view of Sydney Harbour from the flight deck. Capturing Singapore from Marina Bay Sands. View from the office. INSET PHOTOS by Henry Patterson. BACKGROUND: The old capital of Fiji, Levuka is Patterson’s hometown and one of his favourite destinations Photo: Kama Catch Me FIJITIME
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