Locally trained helicopter pilot, 19, licensed to fly
Guyana’s first locally trained helicopter pilot, Captain Azam Ally, was today presented with his private pilot licence by Minister of Public Works Hon. Bishop Juan Edghill, who has responsibility for transportation.
The young captain successfully completed his private pilot check ride facilitated by Guyana Civil Aviation Authority on Tuesday. He had completed his first solo check flight back in September.
Minister Edghill applauded the young man on his achievements, noting that he could inspire the nation’s youth.
“Once you keep your dream alive it can happen and with hard work it could be done,” the Minister said.
The Minister encouraged Captain Ally to continue to make his family and Guyana proud.
In response, the pilot said he was honoured to have created history in Guyana. Captain Ally thanked those who supported him during his journey to success, singling out Mr. Leslie Johnson, whom he said played an integral role during his studies.
He also said his older brother, who is captain of a fixed- wing aircraft also inspired him to pursue aviation.
Captain Ally’s journey to becoming a pilot started in 2019 as a trainee mechanic at the maintenance department of Air Services Limited. Subsequently, he was assigned to the rotorcraft maintenance programme. After completing one year in rotorcraft maintenance, Captain Mazahar Ally gave the teenager the opportunity to start training as a helicopter pilot.
The training commenced on August 3, 2020, under the tutelage of Captain Buddy Chance — a veteran helicopter pilot and one of two approved helicopter flight instructors at Air Services Limited.