Pinkskyinspired conversations with Susannah Close

Let me just say that it’s great to be back. It has been almost 2 months since my last episode, work and personal commitments kept me busy. It was also a time for some reflection. Looking back on your past is an interesting but sometimes complex task. I think I almost overwhelmed myself with the content of my aviation career, as well as re-living the highs and lows of a life past. But no matter, I am back, with the next installment. 

In this episode
I learn the outcome of the Twin Otter crash in Abuja and why it happened, new customers come on board as we launch our new services, and our new charter jet finally arrives in Lagos.

PrintMyTops

In this episode:

·     I re-write the complete company operations manual, along with processes and company operations procedures, 

·     staff, and re-train the flight operations team and flight crew 

·     and start to transform the aspirations and fortunes of this new charter company.  

PrintMyTops

In this episode

·     The decision about my future must be made, as the offer will not remain on the table for much longer

·     The deed is done,

·     And I start the next phase of my journey.
 
 

PrintMyTops

In this episode

·     I have a critical career decision to make at Bristow Helicopters.

·     Do I go ahead, take a chance, and make history as the first Female Chief Pilot in Nigeria or do I stay safe?

·     Is loyalty to my company an insurmountable stumbling block to leaving?

·     Whilst all that is happening in my head, I spend my weekends at the Lagos Flying Club, going back to basics.

PrintMyTops

In this episode:
I reflect on my years with Bristow’s as I am encouraged to broaden my horizons
I find myself in the palace of the Emir of Kano
And I make the very difficult decision to leave Bristow Helicopters.

In this episode

I have a heated argument on the ramp with the CEO of Shell Oil.

 I transport a recently deceased oilman out of Port Harcourt on his final journey home to the US.

In this episode

* I have another horrible few weeks as I battle more weather and aircraft technical issues.

* I have an argument with two storm cells

* And I learn a valuable lesson when dealing with an attempted armed robbery

In this episode

·     The King Air becomes my home, as I ramp up the hours.

·     More incidents help to shape my command experience

·     And I keep learning good lessons

Happy New Year to all listeners. 

In this episode

*My new co-pilot is rostered with me as permanent crew

*We take on more charter contracts in a now very busy operation

*I experience several incidents that start to demand more of me as a Captain

In this episode

Planning for the new charter department takes shape.

I set off to the Uk for my King Air training and ferry flight, and after my return, I set about choosing staff and flight crew for my new department.

From all the crew at the pinkskypodcast, we wish you, your families and friends, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

Here’s to a brighter, positive and hopeful 2021.