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FireFlyz | 59
seconded to Malaysian Airlines (MAS)
for one), we reckoned she would be in
a great position to share an enlightening
insight into the industry.
“Have an open mind if you would
like to join the airline industry. There are
endless possibilities and many ‘behind-
the-scenes’ work to make one aircraft fly.
“From engineering, to rostering, to hu-
man resources to in-flight services, there
are plenty of people thanklessly working
behind the scenes, ensuring your planes
and flights are safe and pleasant.
“I’ve never regretted joining the airline
and am looking forward to my years to
come in this industry as it is ever chang-
ing and forever challenging.”
Piloting: Not as Easy as it
Sounds
With that said, though, it must be noted
that while some people think piloting is
an easy job, it actually requires extensive
flight experience and training, on top
of working knowledge and technical
know-how to be able to solve aviation
issues mid-flight.
Additionally, Sofia points out that
one of the most challenging things about
her job is balancing work and personal
life, as the flying hours may get a little
demanding at times, especially during
peak seasons where passenger traffic
dramatically increases.
“Honestly, it hasn’t been a walk in
the park. It took some time for people to
understand why I wasn’t at their wed-
dings or birthdays, dinner celebrations …
or even Hari Raya or Chinese New Year!
“I have my work commitments, but
I’m very lucky and thankful to have
people around me who understand the
nature of my job.
“Right now I’m flying on the ATR72-
600 which currently has no night stops,
which helps a lot as I would be at home
by evening’s end instead of two or three
days away for night stops.”
Challenging as it may be, Sofia de-
fends her love for her job.
“In Firefly, everyone is like family
– we laugh, we joke; we get stressed
together such as during delays.
“Sometimes things get tense, and we
argue, but patch things up. Just like a
typical lovable family.”, a soft gleam of
fondness in her eyes is evident as she
recounts her experience.
“Also, I love my job as a pilot because
I get first class seats to the most stunning
views which not everyone is able to see.”
On the Airline Industry
Having been with Firefly Airlines for
a solid six years (although she was
A proud moment ...
Sofia receiving her
Captain Certification
Captain Sofia with her
Senior First Officer
and Cabin Crew