What does a typical day look like for you?
There is no “standard” day, as every day is different… Typically, my day involves checking in with the different teams across Charter, Marketing and Accounts, sitting down with them to discuss any ongoing trips, marketing campaigns and how the teams may require my support. Throughout the day, I will also be speaking with new and existing clients regarding their requests, ensuring they are quoted in a timely manner. I work closely with our suppliers to ensure everything is setup from an operational perspective, whether that be specific catering, branded headrests or tarmac / ramp access at the airport – nothing is off limits (within reason, of course).
What do you love about working in aviation?
I love the complete variety that comes with working in the aviation industry and the competitiveness that comes with it…
With over a decade’s worth of experience across both commercial aircraft and private jets, I competently help a multitude of clients with their travel, whilst working with a variety of suppliers across private and commercial aviation.
For example, one client may need a private jet for a handful of passengers, another might need a commercial airliner for a large group – in fact, a client may need one of each so as their dedicated point of contact, they don’t need to change who they speak to and I can help find them the best solution.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
One of the most challenging things is when issues arise that are outside of our control. Lack of aircraft availability, weather issues, ATC (Air Traffic Control) slot delays and those unlikely situations where an aircraft has a technical issue. Like cars and trains, planes also have mechanical issues which cannot be helped and it’s how we deal with them that sets us apart – by being transparent and honest in our communication, whilst providing a clear and concise solution to the issue (although, weather is one of those that we can’t change unfortunately).
What do you do when you are not working?
When I’m not working (which is rare as everyone knows this isn’t your “normal 9-5”), I am a season ticket holder at Tottenham Hotspur (for my sins) so will be attending their home matches of a weekend. COYS.
Spending time with my partner, our dog Alma (who you may have seen on social media with #AlmaThursdays) and family / friends between Sussex and North Devon is a nice way to “switch off”.
Where would you be working if you hadn’t chosen aviation?
I had the football dream like every boy growing up and like every “footballer” who had that dream, I tore my ACL and MCL and the dream was swiftly over. In all seriousness, I grew up wanting to be a policeman and I love my cars so I imagine I would either be a police interceptor or selling cars.
Connect with Matt Feldon, Head of Charter
