Project Silent Wings 2020/24 (NEW)


Promoting English for AVIATION, related technology
and special assignments

2020 - 2024
FOR EFW PROJECTS 

PROJECT SILENT WINGS

February 25  March 14 UPDATE 2024
We wish all the students a good take off in life
and great success!

It is with sincere joy that we can announce that 6 private scholarships from Skipper John (see February 8 update below) have been awarded to six deserving students. The students were chosen on the basis of results, referrals, attitude and personal knowledge. Further updates and support initiatives to follow in time. 

We would like to thank our field leader Tai for preparing the certificates, awards and presentations.
Credit: Pexels

The first senior full University scholarship for the 2024 academic year was awarded to an ex student  and ex school Drill Team cadet captain who has demonstrated great talent and attitude throughout his academic journey. The name and details of the award will be withheld with our agreement at the request of the student. 

A second scholarship for a Vocational College was awarded to another excellent student Ms Noi. (Pnyaporn P.)
Congratulations: I wish you good luck
and great success!

A third scholarship for a Vocational College student was also awarded to a second school drill team cadet Captain.

Congratulations Pluem
We wish you success in your studies
and in your career.

The third, fourth and fifth junior scholarship awards were presented to Ms. Thitiya Panyanan attending M4 at Tung Saliam School (outstanding student), Ms. Kanpissha Palason from PAKA school and Ms. Natchariya Kamwiyo from Tung Saliam primary school (Ta Soom).

All students will also receive special award T shirts with our symbols to encourage them to always try to fly high. That means to do their best to achieve their full potential. These were also sponsored by Skipper John.
 
Ms. Thitiya Panyanan
Congratulations: keep up the excellent work
Ms. Kanpissha Palason
Good luck. Aim high!
 Ms. Natchariya Kamwiyo
Chock Dee! Keep persevering!
Combined photo op at the beautiful SSNP!
We wish the students all the best for their studies 
and great success.
Fly as high as you are able!

February 8 UPDATE 2024
We wish for students to land good jobs and 
in a good life. When you can fly, you can choose!

I am very pleased to announce that with the major contribution of Skipper John, we will be able to offer a restricted number of selected students support for both studies and education materials. The students will be chosen on the basis of results, attitude and effort. The specific awards will be shared only with the family of the students and the students themselves. We will not publish names or awards on the website. However more general support activities will be published under the "Special Support Projects" tab. We sincerely thank our special Skipper for his ongoing interest in and willingness to support students and education in the Sisatchanalai district.
We really care very much about the students in these areas as we know there are many talented young people.

From 16 February 2024 I will be back Europe where there is a 5/6 hours difference behind Thailand.
I will, as in the past, be assisting students already registered on Whats App and Line free English support on request. Students can ask me on the apps the topics that they need help on and I will support them. This is FREE as everything we have done has been to date. The only condition is that students must be on one of the two apps and/ or e mail. This is not open to everyone but only selected INTERESTED students.

June 22 2023 - January UPDATE 2024

My favorite airline for travel abroad!

From 25 JUNE 2023 I will be back Europe where there is a 5/6 hours difference behind Thailand. 
I will, as in the past, be assisting students already registered on Whats App and Line free English support on request. Since I am unable to be in one location at any one time this is the best way that I can help. Students can ask me on the apps the topics that they need help on and I will support them. This is FREE as everything we have done has been to date. The only condition is that students must be on one of the two apps and/ or e mail. This is not open to everyone but only selected INTERESTED students.
Remember to let me know your nickname (in English so that I can add you) and school or ex school if in  University or College.
Take care.

March 23 UPDATE 2023
Thank you for your amazing support!

These past weeks saw a very intensive Boot Camp style program in which everyone put in remarkable effort and all made good progress in some cases starting from a very basic level. In particular we have seen three top more advanced students emerge and make some of the fastest progress that I have seen in a very short period of time. Thanks to the support and leadership of the Head of the SSNP Mr Suttavee Yodsanun this special program was extremely successful as measured by the level of proficiency before and after the Boot Camps. I want to thank everyone involved for their enthusiasm and commitment. It was a real pleasure to be part of this.
Certificates were handed out to each participant to recognize their effort and perseverance.
Foot armed patrols go out into forest areas 
regularly covering many sq kilometers. A 
difficult but important job to protect
the forests and animals from poachers.
Centre: ranger and top student Miss Fern
Hard at work everyday and taking on some
aggressive fast paced learning.
The three top students on the intensive 
Boot Camp program. (Tai, Fern, Nick)
Well deserved certificate of recognition to
Khun Wow (basic Boot Camp)
Khun Rung (basic Boot Camp)
Khun Num (basic Boot Camp)
Khun Aon (basic Boot Camp)
Top student Nick (intensive Boot Camp)
It was a pleasure to award Nick with a
DNP official uniform shirt for excellent
effort and commitment.
Khun Fern (intensive Boot Camp) also
received a special RMRTP T shirt awarded
to top students for effort.
Khun Tai (intensive Boot Camp)
and assistant coach for basic boot camp
students
The complete team: congratulations!
Top teams can land anywhere, achieve
anything!
Happy landings!

March 19 UPDATE 2023
With Forestry Technical Officer Nick

The special EFW  Boot Camp project with selected SSNP staff is continuing with great enthusiasm from all and thanks to the leadership of the Chief Officer and Head Khun Yodsanun, I am glad to see that everyone is keenly interested and participating fully in the program. Certificates will be issued on completion of the boot camp. Special thanks to Khun Grathai PR officer for her continuous support and hard work in making all this happen. 
A big thank you!
A highly motivated team!
That wasted no time in taking on our
tight syllabus! Well done!
Under the watchful eye of a resident......
Training also takes place in the field
With live assistance to lost but
interested  Dutch visitors
Through some rocky terrain!
Whom we were happy to escort through the forest!
Before returning to session
Thanks to EMS Ranger Khun Naa for his
continuous support to all of us and the
community.
 
I wish to acknowledge with deep gratitude  the role and generous support of the Abbot of
the PAKA retreat centre who has for years provided a home for me in this  sacred area. The Dhammayud tradition (Forest Monks) has a deep connection with their natural environment 
as well as great insight into natural remedies. They are a source of inspiration and protection.
And to Khun Dilok the resident lay person 
who provides continuous help and support 
to the  monks, the  centre  as well as  those
 lucky enough to stay here. 
(And who is also a wonderful chef)
ANU MO THANA!
Age is not important! You can fly with your heart
and mind anytime.

March 6 UPDATE 2023

I am extremely happy to be back in Sisat for a short visit and to meet up with some friends and ex students. I am helping on three different support projects for a short period of time before heading back to Bangkok and later back to Europe for 6 months. Some students have made a huge effort to visit me and I am grateful to them. They will always be welcome. I am also happy to see that despite limited opportunities for practice some have retained their foundation and can communicate effectively. Later after the video editing is complete we will post a new video which is one of the three projects.
But the sad news is that Thailand's proficiency index has fallen again for the 4 year acording to a world rank study.

Working on a short  English video interview with
Tiew with the support of SSNP who kindly
provided the facilities.
Thank you to the Head of SSNP Mr Suttavee
Yussanan and his helpful staff
staff for their assistance and hospitality
From the left: Khun Pemiga, Khun Tawee rangers
SSNP has always played an important role in
supporting activities for the local communities,
Ex student Parn now working as a
pharmaceutical technician in a public hospital.

It is for me always a pleasure to see students making progress and trying hard. Its all the universe asks of us. Just live life doing our best and caring for others. 
Some students ask if I still remember them: The answer is a big YES! When you care, you can never be separated. Bodies may be separated but hearts remain connected.
Fly high!

January/February UPDATE 2023

Taking off into a New Year

I hope that everyone made it to the New Year in good health and ready to start with a positive attitude and a high level of energy. I also hope that English will continue to be your priority alongside whatever subject you have decided to study. I was able to connect with quite a few of my contacts and ex students who remain in touch with me and I hope to visit and catch up with them on this trip. I might also have a few surprises if all goes according to plan. So I wish you a happy year and please continue to fly with your hearts and minds,
UPDATE: I am happy to announce that with the kind help of ex teacher Gratthai (now an SSNP officer) we have been able to deliver some quality clothes to students at Hwa Yuak district. (see special Support projects link).

December UPDATE 2022

Happy Xmas to all my ex students and
contacts and their families
Be safe and happy> always!

Once again I would like to say a big hello and thank you for practicing English. Thank you for telling me about how you are doing via Line and Whats App. I will always be interested in hearing about your progress. This period hello and good wishes goes to students Lieu, Dern, Arm, Bee, Thong, Kru Chat, Kru Jariya in Bangkok.
Also to the students in and from the Pitsonoluk, Uttaradit, Sawankalok and Sisatchanalai Districts and Ban Rai that have not given up on their English and all those who are really trying.

English will be more and more important and I am always proud to hear of your progress. The future is in technology mainly and today any really well paying jobs require English and Chinese. Please do not give up and practice speaking above all. Many students will be working in other Asian developed countries such as Korea and Japan. Be smart and catch the big wave to the shore!!!

Also I cannot take on new students via Line, Whats App and e mail. because I am now full and have a real time problem. I can only help those students or teachers that I already know and for them I will always try to be available to support online.

EARLIER REMINDER: FROM 22 MARCH 2022 I will be Europe where there is a 6 hours difference behind Thailand. Please send me a message one day before so we can plan a time. I will return to TH early next year.

With effect from 15 March 2022 and until further notice I will be offering students already registered on Whats App and Line free English tutorials on request using video conferencing. Since I am unable to be in one location at any one time this is the best way that I can help students. Students can ask me on the apps the topics that they need help on and I will support them. This is FREE as everything we have done has been to date. The only condition is that students must be on one of the two apps and/ or e mail. This is not open to everyone but only selected INTERESTED students.




September  UPDATE 2022
Credit: Pexels
Keep on flying with your hearts and minds!

First of all I would like to say a big hello and congratulations for all those practicing English by themselves. A warm greeting and thanks to Kru Nut, Kru Ple, Kru Bum, Ajarn Nitin and Por Or Kob. (sorry for my spelling). Also to the students in and from the Sisatchanalai District in Sukothai province (some of whom are at different Universities) that have not given up on their English and who apparently are doing better than the average. Well done! English will be more and more important and I am always proud to hear of your progress. Please do not give up and practice speaking above all. Written English is important but the one you will most likely need for good jobs is spoken.
I have been asked by friends whether I can help out as a volunteer in Udon Thani (rural district) but right now I cannot due to family issues in Europe. I will keep in touch.
Also I cannot take on new students via Line, Whats App and e mail. because I am now full and have a real time problem. I can only help those students or teachers that I already know and for them I will always try to be available to support online.

REMINDER: FROM 22 MARCH 2022 I will be Europe where there is a 5/6 hours difference behind Thailand. Please send me a message one day before so we can plan a time. I will return to TH early next year.

With effect from 15 March 2022 and until further notice I will be offering students already registered on Whats App and Line free English tutorials on request using video conferencing. Since I am unable to be in one location at any one time this is the best way that I can help students. Students can ask me on the apps the topics that they need help on and I will support them. This is FREE as everything we have done has been to date. The only condition is that students must be on one of the two apps and/ or e mail. This is not open to everyone but only selected INTERESTED students.
Credit: Pexels
Top view is better in life...

March UPDATE 2022
Happy to help those who want it!

NEW UPDATE: FROM 22 MARCH 2022 I will be Europe where there is a 5/6 hours difference behind Thailand. Please send me a message one day before so we can plan a time. I will return to TH early next year.

With effect from 15 March 2022 and until further notice I will be offering students already registered on Whats App and Line free English tutorials on request using video conferencing. Since I am unable to be in one location at any one time this is the best way that I can help students. Students can ask me on the apps the topics that they need help on and I will support them. This is FREE as everything we have done has been to date. The only condition is that students must be on one of the two apps. This is not open to everyone but only selected INTERESTED students.
Please send a message first on the app, explain the type of help you need and we will arrange a video call. If your friends need help please tell me their name, school or university and I will add them to the app.

STEPS:

1) Let me know via app (whats app/line) or email what help you need
2) I will arrange a time and date with you
(if I am in Europe we are 5/6 hours behind TH)
3) I will also send you materials to help 
4) New students can join but I have to control the number
because its one on one so I cannot help many students.
5) If your friends want to join the video call, welcome!
6) Teachers have asked if they can join, of course! Let me know 
the topic you need help on. I will not share your names or schools.

Sincere thanks to the students and teachers that confidentially continue to keep me informed about what is going on in the schools we previously sponsored. My continued wish is that all students are successful and achieve their fullest potential. 
 
Fly high, with heart and mind!
Thailand has some of the best medical care
facilities in the world. That includes Doctors,
nurses and staff.  They really care. And they
care about & speak excellent English. Thanks 
Khun "Uss" and Khun Nomar from Nakornthorn
Hosp. for representing the best.

Aviation Visit (Malpensa Aviation Collection/adjacent 
to Malpensa Airport (VOLANDIA) May 2022
















Wishing you all a HAPPY, SUCCESSFUL, 
PROSPEROUS 2022

Credit: Pexels

November/December Update 2021

Wishing all of you lots of good success always!

Happy Christmas!

"Don't just learn, experience.
Don't just read, absorb.
Don't just change, transform.
Don't just relate, advocate.
Don't just promise, prove.
Don't just criticize, encourage.
Don't just think, ponder.
Don't just take, give.
Don't just see, feel.
Don’t just dream, do.
Don't just hear, listen.
Don't just talk, act.
Don't just tell, show.
Don't just exist, live.”

Roy T. Bennett,
The Light in the Heart

Waiting to return...
Still grounded but things are looking
better back in Asia....right now we still
have the "not going anywhere feeling".
But hoping to take off soon again...

The difference between Thailand and Italy is that in Thailand there is a much greater level of openness and cooperation with the aviation industry in order to promote technology and career awareness and student interaction. In Italy the  recent and present draconian discriminatory "green pass" laws make it almost impossible, at the very least extremely difficult, to be able to access both educational institutions and aviation circles. This closed burocratic mentality is in contrast to many other countries where access to such fields is simplified and encouraged. 

As a result we have almost given up covering any aviation activity locally this year since even booking a simple seaplane flight experience for 45 mins over the lake of Como has proved to be an extremely difficult process. We tried it with a respected and accomplished Italian commander whom we do not blame for this; but its appointed event organizer failed through its inefficient process to get us even started. It would have been interesting since this is a new aircraft that I have never flown in before and it could have been a great sharing opportunity.
Credit: Pexels

I am continuing to keep contact with our Thai students and through online/app we are able to to provide support. 
I keep thinking about the great potential of Thai students that I have met and their strength of character in the face of many difficulties. It is my hope that Thailand will totally focus on the development of their great talent pool as a strategic objective. It can surpass many European countries if it prepares its youth better.

July/August Update 2021
Welcome to explore and think about
technology as your future job....

For students that want to have extra English help online, please be aware that there are two links you can access for free. Click the links below:


Please help yourself and use your time to learn English if you want to be competitive in the job market.
I hope that if the current virus situation improves, I will be able to cover aviation topics in Italy. 
I will update in the next month...

May/June UPDATE 2021
Aviation has come a long way
from 1933

I just want to thank the students who are keeping me informed of their progress and sharing their
updates. I will not mention their nicknames but I really appreciate it. Also thanks to teachers N*** and S***for their updates. I know some of you have experienced some problems and a few will be changing schools. Remember that I still care about all those we met and I really would like you all to be successful so that you can one day choose your life. And please also do more studying by yourself since most schools do not prepare you for the new economy. The world in the next 5 years will be very different. For now: happy holidays, stay safe!

May 1, UPDATE 2021
Varese, Italy

Update on technology opportunities

I have told many students that trends indicate that the future in terms of well paying jobs lies in three main sectors based on what we know today: technology (green technology especially automotive and vehicles), scientific or advanced food production (not food services), medicine (traditional and western medicine).

If you conduct a simple internet research into aviation and technology development you will see that:

1) Aircraft development and innovation have not stopped. For example new aviation fuels that lower the need for fossil fuels are being introduced/new engine designs/new cabin designs/electronic applications are continuing, aerospace engineering.
2) New small electrically powered GA (general aviation) aircraft are already flying in many skies across the world.
3) Which activities have not stopped even during this terrible pandemic?
- aircraft development and design (especially through new electronics and electronic systems)
- maintenance of aircraft (electrical/mechanical/electronic)
- Safety specialists, quality and security operators (although new technology/facial recognition and biometric systems will reduce these even further).
- Research and development will continue for people who like specialized roles. requiring science, maths, chemistry or biology as main subjects.

If you look at the trend it clearly shows us that in the next 10 years more and more unskilled jobs will disappear to be replaced by more or new specialized technical roles many of which will be online.

Even in countries such as Italy where the earlier management of the 2019/2021 medical crisis has resulted in huge job losses, the specialized sectors (food production/distribution/technology/maintenance/medical) have all kept going. But more and more technology will also replace many of these jobs in the next 10 years. Small companies are being bought out by bigger companies. Centralization of the economy is happening everywhere and it will also come to government.

Unfortunately many rural students are advised by their family to go into jobs that are either low paying (for perceived job security) or that will be eventually phased out or greatly reduced.

So before you spend time and money on obtaining your qualification after you finish high school please think about:

1) what do I love doing? what makes me happy?
2) what jobs are available in the market today that match my interest and skills ?
3) is this a job that will last into the future or is it a job that can be done by a machine? (internet search: jobs that will go away)
4) What do I need to learn by myself that the school cannot teach me?

It is a fact that in many developing countries schools and teachers are not connected to and have no idea how to advise students about changes in the global economy and jobs. Many teachers have never worked in an international context and have never moved out of their country.
The standards are so low and outdated that every student that wants to have a chance at a well paying job needs to put in 50% of the effort on top of whatever the school is teaching you. A top score in many schools does not mean any real ability to succeed.

So please consider this, its a big decision and my wish is for every student to be able to choose their life and take care of themselves doing what they enjoy.
Oh and ENGLISH (not the average school level) is extremely important now and in future.


March 21 UPDATE 2021
Sisatchanalai, Sukothai

The onset of this mega-virus has produced serious consequences for pilot and crew employment everywhere worldwide and also in Thailand. The problems faced here are not only related to this medical emergency but also to the quality of the students that graduate from some flying schools. English continues to be a problem for many enrolling as well as the other key subjects that are more academic and less technical. (eg. international aviation law). Several articles appeared since 2019 on various sites, including the Bangkok Post (Airlines don't want Thai pilots), Thaiger, (Airlines snubbing Thai pilots etc.).that highlighted the difficulties faced by newly graduated pilots and less than enthusiastic employers.
CLICK LINK HERE:Thailand-substandard-flying-schools/ and here: Careers-not-taking-newly-graduated-thai-pilots
Unfortunately the standard of English appears to have dropped even lower: to see 2020 results click here: EF English proficiency ranking Thailand 2020

Many trainee pilots are grounded....

Having said that, the Thai pilots that are flying today commercially are amongst the best in the world. The selection process has to be of a very high standard and it is.

However it is not all bad news...aviation is not dead and I don't believe it will ever be. Pilots do not just fly people, they also fly cargo and many other missions (rescue, military, construction, transport, drones, police, survey). There are many aviation roles that never stopped functioning during this crisis.

Aviation travel is also picking up. Mechanics, technicians and engineers are still in demand. If you click on technical aviation jobs in Thailand 2021 you will get an idea. Even grounded aircraft require maintenance and technical support. Aviation design and technology is still advancing.

So what does this mean: people with good English and good qualifications that meet international standards are and will always be needed. There is another factor to consider: the falling birth rate and declining population (https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thailands-latest-official-population-is-66186727-with-more-women-than-men/) means that there will be more opportunities for qualified people that right now are being taken by expats in key roles. The strong relationship between Thailand and China has seen thousands of determined and motivated Chinese students, businessmen and professionals coming to Thailand and they will be competing for jobs locally as did their ancestors quite a few generations ago. Already we have many other expats & Asean and Asian workers who are here because of a skill shortage in all specialized fields. So for Thai students this is a good chance to awaken to the fact that the future will be good if they become smarter in outlook and develop themselves to a higher standard than is the case today for many.
Do not be afraid to climb to
the top...go as far as you can!

January 28 UPDATE 2021


Our "silent wings" have continued to fly......silently!
We have been recently able to make further small scholarship awards directly to a number of selected students all of whom were ex students from the Sukothai area. I would like to thank the biggest sponsor of this round Francesco Resteghini (Italy) and his family (Annalisa, Irene, Celestino, Niccolo') for the solidarity, belief in and generous support to Thai students. The students were able to contact Francesco via e mail and were selected for their ongoing effort and commitment to better themselves. Students names will remain confidential. We love you and we believe in you. Keep up your efforts.

January 12 UPDATE 2021

Flight activity has begun to slowly pick up

I have just returned to Thailand where the handling of this pandemic thus far has been exceptionally good. Unlike Europe and my own country, there is an excellent and coherent management of this crisis. The operation response plan makes sense, is easily implemented and is fair for everyone above all the Thai people. Sometimes we think that western countries are more advanced in all fields: as I have just witnessed that is not necessarily true. I am also happy to see that many students are continuing to make progress and work to achieve their dreams. Thailand as a great pool of talent and very smart young people. If the education system could just keep pace with the evolving economic demands, this country would be a powerhouse in SE Asia. Here is wishing it will happen. In the meantime: technology will continue to grow in all its applications. So this together with good English is your chance! Take it
Flying safely! Excellent response.

December UPDATE 2020

Happy New Year wishes to students! โชคดี....
Wish you good health and wealth!
Happy holidays!

I know that this has been a very difficult year for many people everywhere. However I am happy to say that the students (university, high school and middle school) that I am in touch with almost weekly are all doing their best and I am very happy to hear about their progress and news. I am really proud of you all.

Please remember to:

1) Set your aim high ตั้งเป้าให้สูง
2) Believe in yourself เชื่อในตัวคุณเอง
3) Always try your best พยายามที่ดีที่สุดของคุณ
4) Never give up อย่ายอมแพ้
5) Speak true, act true! พูดจริงทำจริง

You will succeed! Like Khun Tam Hoang
(Vietnam)
คุณจะชนะ
Set your goal!
Focus!!!

13 November UPDATE 2020

As a result of a chronic inability by the European and Italian governments to manage and contain this health crisis (SE Asia and other parts of the world are doing a much better job, Thailand is excellent), we are stuck here and unable to proceed with any plans that we might have had. We are still in touch via e mail, line and whats app with students at University, High School and middle school in the Sisatchanalai, Bang Rai, Uttaradit and Phitsonoluk districts. All students are trying their best and have a good chance to make something of their lives. Thanks for keeping in touch. As soon as we have any news or new plans they will be published here.

SUPERBUG HAS NOT KILLED AVIATION!

Mergozzo, Italy: ELIOSSOLA

14 August 2020 UPDATE

Please click on the links indicated to view the content.

Piedmont Region

A lot of doubt has been understandably created as a result of the many restrictions placed on passenger movement that have seriously impacted the aviation industry and its many employees in all key roles..

However since I believe that professionals and skilled personnel will always be in demand and to support this important sector, we went back to our friend Capt Massimo at the heliport  to show solidarity for the critical role played by pilots and their crews. Helicopters and planes are also used in specialized roles such as rescue, transporting goods, fire fighting and surveying. Pilots like Massimo have flying in their blood and are highly skilled in maneuvering around difficult and varied terrain. 

We also had the chance to give a young teenage Italian student Celestino the first Heli experience of his life - he was also an additional cameraman who took everything about this experience with great poise and balance. Chicco our former Thai student sponsor also joined to record the event.

GRAZIE A TUTTI !

ALSO: Thank you Luca the additional crew member who also took great shots during this flight.

The purpose of this flight was threefold:

1) An educational experience we have always tried to offer selected students to learn about the exciting dynamics and structure of flight.

2) Show our support for this important industry in a time of need: people need to understand that technology and aviation (all fields) will continue to grow beyond the recent hysteria around this viral phenomenon. Technology will continue to expand in all its fields. Aviation: drones, cargo movement by air, specialist assignments(civil, police, military), space applications are part of our future.

3) Finally and most importantly to pay respect to my 95 year old mother who loves helicopters...but from afar and not in them. We granted her wish in light of the long ancestral heritage and family connections with aviation and the military.

Our offering to our great supporter: Dr. Prof. Maria Orsini
Ready to wave to us from her balcony.
BELOW THE PHOTO GALLERY AND VIDEOS
Always happy when near a flying object!
Front or rear is equally fascinating.
The small efficient base at Mergozzo, Piemonte
A 5 pax seater aircraft!
This time a blue Airbus..just as snazzy and
an incredible work horse.
Luca pushing it after refueling....
Me trying to take off by myself...I need more
practice swinging my arms faster!
Getting ready to roll!ff 3
Rolling: take off is fast and smooth over Laveno Mombello
Mission objective set...Cuasso al Piano (VA)
Overflying Brinzio village (Valganna)
Soon get a birds eye view...
Which is spectacular (Verbania)
Quickly rising above the lake (Isolino S. Giovanni/small island)
island)
And the Lago Maggiore lake coastline
Flight overview
We overfly hills,...
Valleys...Golf Club Fondo Toce
Flat areas...around the river
River outlets...Fondo Toce  river (Natural Reserve)
Small villages (camping site Lido del Toce)
Tiny islands dotted dotting the surface
(Isola Madre, Lake Maggiore)
Rugged terrain over Laveno Mombello
Hilly and mountainous (Valceresio)
Combo: villages, small towns nestled and cradled in the
mountains (Cuasso al Piano)
Quarries peel off chunks of mountains
making this more of a ravaged environment. Quarry 
(Cuasso al Monte)
But thankfully limited!
We are not short of variety in our topography.
That rise up several hundred metres..
And reveal lake pockets of crystal clear water
(Ghirla Lake, Valganna)


Helicopters are ideal for studying the landscape
which is far more beautiful from the air!
Many peaks to cross prior to heading to
our destination...
In a short time we fly over mountains, hills, lakes...
Sprawling villages, towns
Lago Maggiore the largest lake in Lombardy region


Ferry crossing the major Varese lake
Not easy to get such great shots!


Over our area: the trick is to find the house.
But the pilot did it!
Docking bays for the sailors who prefer open
water to open skies...
Close up view of the beach
I think boats outnumber us by quite a bit!

Low flight...
Passing over Ganna lake
Some remarkable beaches I did not even know about!
Toce camping site and beach
Beautiful scenery...
Return journey....
Heading back...on same route
Returning to base
Descent!


I wish to sincerely thank Capt Massimo and his team for providing us with this extraordinary chance to achieve all these three key objectives. They are a wonderful team and we are grateful for their service.
We did manage to locate our yellow clad 'target' on the balcony after some searching between the pines at an allowed minimum altitude. Had she been wearing a green top, it could have been more problematic - but all went superbly well. She was delighted and truly excited.

We will add many photos as photo gallery of some great views that you may download and are free to use -  royalty free.We will post them on Pexels where all photos are free.

11 August 2020: 

WISHING THAI AIRWAYS A SPEEDY RETURN TO THE SKIES

Taken prior to one my flights from a
Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel.

Thai airways has always been my favourite airline and like many is today facing serious financial problems. Thai airways has one of the most consistent services that I have experienced: well trained staff and air crews, good service and reliable every time. I wish to express my sincere good wishes to all the staff at THAI for a resolution to this sad period. May you come back stronger than ever.

NOTICE 1: 10 JULY UPDATE 2020

Credit: Pexels/Pixabay
Encouraging technological opportunities.

NOTICE 2: 10 JULY 2020

Many people are asking me about the future of aviation and careers. Personally I do not believe that aviation is at future risk and that this economic slowdown is only a temporary phase. In fact the top three key future fields will remain: technology (all sectors), food and medicine. This is also in line with Thailand's vision of key skills needed. The more advanced the skill, (with English a MUST), the higher the opportunity. Technology will grow phenomenally. But everyone will find their own path so don't worry. Just develop to the best you can be and you will succeed.

Fly high....
 Technology has many applications
 Is across all fields air/ground/sea...
 Sets you free financially if you prepare well...
And can take you to many places

March 17 2020 
Wishing Italy and all
those affected by this pandemic a
speedy recovery.

January 17 Bangkok

We began this year by revisiting one of our favorite Aviation Flight Training schools: the Bangkok Aviation Center. Situated in Nakhon Nayok this is a center of excellence for developing talented and passionate male and female pilots.
We last visited this facility with a group of highly keen students over a year ago.
The purpose of this visit was to obtain advice that can help us to better guide and support our students in their choice of career. BAC is an internationally recognized and accredited academy and produces several hundred pilots each year. Our visit was extremely helpful and allowed us to better evaluate student requirements. We have also received many questions from ex students as well as new students about aviation opportunities and I think this visit has helped us to bridge that gap.
Sincere thanks to our wonderful hosts and
advisors: Khun Rusty (far right) and Khun Nuy
(far left). We will ensure that the time you
shared with us will be put to good use.
And special congratulations to Flt. Officer Hun who today graduated and received his wings. I was impressed with the fact that he really earned his wings by working to achieve his dream demonstrating the power of passion. We dropped in on his happy achievement and were so lucky to share his joy.

In fact I have met many pilots especially of the younger generation in Thailand and found that whereas many had the good luck to be able to pay for their studies, there are also many who have worked hard in other jobs to fulfill their dream. So if you really care about something in your life and you keep that dream, you can achieve that. It requires a strong spirit of perserverance and passion. 
Some cheerful students...BAC has some
very talented trainees and very dedicated
instructors.
 This airfield works non stop to train
pilots from early morning to dusk!
 It's quite lucky to be able to see up close an
airport that is fully equipped. Not easy to do
today.
Its also exciting to see planes in action.
 Just as important as pilots, are those
who take care of  and maintain the aircraft.
 Technical roles are needed to ensure the
safe and efficient operation of any
aircraft. Safety has to be the
number 1 issue.
 There are also opportunities for people
with a high level of technical skills.
 Checking aircraft is very important for
mechanics and engineers.
 Me? I am always happy when I am near
any aircraft!
 Teamwork is very important.
BAC has dormitories to accomodate a large
number of students each year.
 ATC view of the field
 Students are supported by high quality
simulators
 And are also tested and guided in their
training
 And in case someone does not feel well: they
even have an in house clinic.
 A wonderful learning environment.
 Great learning tools
I think that is why everyone at BAC
looks so happy.
WELL DONE AND KEEP UP THE
GREAT JOB.
No or low level English, probably no good 
job in any field !

CLICK TO READ: Rocky road to academic excellence!
CLICK TO VIEW  FUN YOU TUBE: Importance of good communication skills
CLICK TO VIEW YOU TUBE: French Navy Pilots Amazing footage

Every year that goes by, there are new technologies and job opportunities that emerge. Many bright rural students are very practical and like to work on technical applications. There are those who wish to choose more academic studies and those who are suited to vocational fields. Many jobs that existed in my early years do not exist anymore. They are gone. In the next ten years more jobs that exist today will also be gone. Universities much like those all over the world will keep producing graduates that will have no jobs. What are some of the problems that I and many of my local friends and colleagues have seen?

1) Spending a lot of time on smartphones, video games and social media. (its fun but being on these all day will not help you find a good job but it will make the app developers very rich)
2) Lack of awareness of students and schools about emerging technologies and lack of preparation for the future. Only a comparably few wealthy or middle class mostly urban families are aware of and have to spend more money to prepare their children. 
3) Extremely low levels of English: the most dangerous element for future job seekers. If technology is really an expanding field with good incomes generated and English is the business language.....what are the chances of success if neighbouring countries have a higher level of English?
4) Worrying too much about social belonging and your friends. That is OK if the standard is high and this could be a benefit. But if you are surrounded by friends with no interest for their future and only focus on having fun, its not helpful to fit into a low standard so that everyone can be happy. These friends will not help you to make a good living.
5) Blaming everyone else for being poor: if you do not take care of your talent and skills, if you waste your early years having fun and not thinking about the future, how can you be angry at everyone else? No one can help  you except 
yourself.
 We can learn from the past to prepare for the
future! Everyone can do it.

2019 in review

I am happy to have visited and to have experienced the Royal Thai Flight Club together with Chris with a view to including this historical general aviation airfield as part of the 2019/2020 efforts to promote and excite talented students to this expanding field - under the instructorship of Capt. Thomas (a dual Thai/Swiss national) I flew an introductory flight of 45 mins in an airplane that I first flew in in 1982. The Cessna 172 remains one of the best training aircraft in the world and is the most often used by flying clubs to train private as well as commercial pilots.

CLICK LINK to view flight: Royal Thai Flying Club experience 1/9-2019

CLICK LINK TO VIEW: Dynamics of flight

CLICK LINK TO VIEW: Outlook for Aviation ASEAN is bright (2019 - 2030)

CLICK LINK TO VIEW: Need to develop higher standards for the future

We hope to offer this chance to selected students in the months to come.

Please see below this article for UPDATES

1) Jobs in aviation where English is necessary and salaries are good
2) The impact of the focus of discipline and tradition King Edward School (RSA)

CONGRATULATIONS to engineer Golf
for having fought a hard battle and for 
achieving his dream. A great example for all 
rural students who break through their social 
limitations; never give up, fight hard and 
succeed through effort and focus!
I wish you luck, success and prosperity.

I have spent a great deal of my life working in Asia hiring key talent as part of my former job and in Thailand I know that there are many extremely bright, wonderful and promising students in every province. Unfortunately, a combination of social and educational factors constitute a blockage for the vast majority of rural students. This prevents their emergence into our world of increasing technological spaces. The biggest challenge for rural students is that in addition to a lack of Enlish skills there is also little guidance and knowledge of emerging opportunities. As well as a disconnect between studies, qualifications and the needs (and quality standards) required by the job market. This is a pity since there are many technical opportunities that provide good jobs and good salaries but which will inevitably go to more skilled foreign workers as a result of a shortage of high-quality professionals. (engineers and technicians in all fields, especially avionics/aviation and supporting sectors).
Aviation is a growing field and is extremely important to Thailand's growth in view of the government's vision to consolidate a regional maintenance hub and Aerotropolis.
This effort is dedicated to creating a connection to that possible future. More to follow...
From Varese, ITALY with love!

Credit: English Club
Lack/Good level of spoken English and understanding will be
a major deciding factor in obtaining good jobs in Aviation.

1) Aviation jobs
See related articles:
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/national/30299195
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/1614914/how-to-meet-changing-labour-demand
https://www.thailand-business-news.com/investment/71845-thailand-to-support-aerospace-sector-via-new-incentives.html
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thai-aerospace-industry-is-ready-for-take-off-300743740.html

"The Director-General of the International Business Aviation Council, Kurt Edwards, added: "All sectors of aviation contribute to the industry's benefits globally. The business aviation sector employs almost 1.5 million people around the world, contributes hundreds of billions of dollars to the global economy, and provides connections to and economic activity in remote regions and underserved locations".

* Air transport supports 65.5 million jobs and $2.7 trillion in global economic activity.
* Over 10 million people work directly for the industry itself.
IATA statement. Click link: International Air Transport Association

Air Traffic controller
Aircraft designer
Aircraft Maintenance
Aircraft Mechanic
Aircraft Electrician
Airline Customer Service
Airline Food Services
Airline Marketing
Aviation Planner
Airline Reservations
Airline Pilot
Airport logistics & operations
Aviation Management
Aviation Safety
Avionics technician/engineer
Baggage Handler
Cargo Carriers
Drone Operator
Drone Aerial Photographer
Flight Attendant
Flight Dispatcher
Flight Instructor
Flight Test Engineer
Ground Crew (operations/logistics)
Ground Operations
Helicopter Pilots
IT technician/engineer
Passenger Service Agent
Radar technician
Reservation Sales Agent
Safety officer (technical)
Security operators/specialist


Gray Combat Air Craft Under Yellow Sky
Encouraging flight of the heart, the mind and of
talent! Languages, Skills and discipline are key!
White and Orange Biplane
Evolving technologies: a role for everyone!
Across all segments of aviation...
Two Pilot Inside Aircraft
All types of flight technology
The future....an increasingly technological world.
 Growing and infinite applications...civil and
military!
 Increasing software and electronics dominance
 Technical diploma, vocational or degree!
Quality of education is key
Technicians, electricians, electronics, designers, engineers...
A role for everyone!

2) SCHOOLING AND DISCIPLINE
ARE IMPORTANT FOR SUCCESS

Below my ex sschool KES 7th High School Cadet Corp
celebrating Remembrance day at the school to honour all 
KES boys who died in the majors wars.
(Johannesburg/GAUTENG), South Africa)
Now you know why we run boot camps!

This school is one of the top schools in the country,
it is a government school but steeped in tradition and
a commitment to effort. It has produced many top
leaders in every field: sports. medicine, writers,
politicians, scientists etc etc

CLICK: KES homepage link

King Edward 7th High School Johannesburg
My school!
High school cadets following in the
tradition of the Transvaal Scottish Regiment
 These young men are taught respect, discipline and
effort
 Yearly remembrance of the fallen!
 The proud logo of the school...
 Field drill display on school grounds
  Remarkable effort and focus!
 Support by regimental pipe band
 These young cadets have a rank structure
 Standing at ease!
 Here come the pipers and drummers!
 Presenting arms: salute!
 Trooping the school colours!
 Heat or rain, they are always on call!
 Without discipline there is little achievement in
life, this is my observation!
 Prayers and standing guard over the symbol
of those gone beyond
 Proud parents - these kids are tough!
 Parading to the courtyard for the service
 Its quite moving to this day!
 School teachers and senior staff/veterans
 Perfect drill formation
 Facing front
 At attention
 A tradition celebrated until today
 Today the school is integrated post apartheid!
 The NCO's are wearing kilts, not skirts as some
Thai students wondered!!!
 Laying of the wreath!

 Paying respect to  these young soldiers who gave
their lives for freedom!

Fond memories and great spirit!
Good education and discipline provides
for good opportunities...  
ALSO SEE AROUND MY TIME (5 years later)
(click link)

In gratitude to my ex teachers and great headmaster and
deputies of the Time.
(Mr R Corbett, Mr Armstrong, Mr Wilson)
My ex English teacher one of the finest: Mr Ben Brooks
who always kept steady through his students
emotional turmoils.