On December 7, the world observed International Civil Aviation Day, which has been celebrated by the International Civil Aviation Organisation since 1994, and was officially recognised by the United Nations General Assembly in 1996.
In reference to the day, Stabroek News is featuring five local women in aviation. Below, in their own words, they share their journeys in a profession that is male dominated.
“I was born and raised in Region Four, along Guyana’s low coastal plain. Many mornings, I was awakened by the sounds of planes flying overhead. It didn’t dawn on me as yet but that might have been where my interest in aviation originated. Years later, I hadn’t decided whether I wanted to become a pilot or an aeronautical engineer. I wasn’t quite sure which I was more passionate about. So, I decided to first complete my secondary school education at Marian Academy and then, Queen’s College. Then I started to look into flight schools abroad, particularly in places with cultures similar to my Guyanese culture. I wanted a “familiarisation” flight that would allow me to sit in a plane with a certified flight instructor and experience what it was like to be at the controls be it the take-offs, landings, and manoeuvring of the aircraft. I wanted this experience so I knew I was making the right decision to pursue an aviation career.
“Eventually, my parents and I decided the most feasible options were Aerial World Services and Briko Air Services, both located in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. And I managed to get my familiarisation flight too. Just after stepping out of the aircraft after that flight, I knew this was my passion. So I started my formal aviation studies. I got my Private Pilot’s License with an Instrument Rating Add-On at Aerial World Services in 2019 and further completed my Commercial Licence with a Multi-engine Rating Add-On in 2020 at Briko Air Services. In February 2020, I returned to Guyana, eager to convert my Trinidad and Tobago Pilot Licence into a Guyana Civil Aviation Pilot Licence.
“As a patriotic Guyanese, I was just so excited to start my flying career at home. And I knew I wanted to be a ‘bush’ pilot. In 2020, I joined JAGS Aviation – a member of the BK Group of Companies – where I gained a tremendous amount of experience seeing many remote hinterland locations while also being typed on the Britten Norman Islander. It was my first official job and certainly, there were numerous challenges to grapple with. There were navigational deficits of the interior locations, the length and condition of some runways, the terrain and of course, the unpredictable weather patterns. Here, I understood the importance of having keen eyesight and making sound judgement calls. In a male-dominated field I was sometimes confronted by challenges as a woman in the field too.
“Then in September of 2022, I joined the Trans Guyana Airways team – a member of the Correia Group of Companies – where I am currently in the final stage of gaining my captaincy on a Cessna Caravan 208. My journey here so far has been an enjoyable one. Learning is prevalent and encouraged. In fact, everyone – both junior and senior captains – are so eager to instil skills needed to help us become better pilots and be safe in the skies, particularly in the hinterland conditions. As a young professional in the aviation sector, I would encourage everyone to continue working towards their dreams and never forget their humble beginnings and sacrifices. And of course, never forget those who paved the way for you. For me, my parents Andrew and Sheryl Ramcharitar worked hard to make my dream a reality. My mother was awake early in the morning to help take care of us while my father took me to work, back and forth every day, while juggling his career.”
Lorraine Phillips – Licensed Air Traffic Controller (Aerodrome and Approach)
“I became a licensed air traffic controller in the year 2020. As a dedicated professional, I am currently in the final phase of training for an upgrade to the highest level of air traffic control (Area surveillance rated), a milestone that represents a culmination of years of hard work, dedication and sacrifice.
The demands of managing air traffic can be taxing as it requires your attention to detail, ability to multitask and make quick and accurate decisions, solve problems that arise, visualise the position and movement of aircraft within Guyana’s airspace, maintain situational awareness of the air and ground traffic under your control, communicate clearly and effectively with pilots and ground personnel, all while remaining focused and calm.
“In spite of this, being an air traffic controller is a fulfilling career. It is a privilege to play a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel, knowing that every successful landing and takeoff is a result of our unwavering dedication and expertise. There is a deep sense of pride to be had in contributing to a system that connects people and places across the world.
“Beyond the control tower and radio communications, I share a life intertwined with the world of arts and community service. My loving husband and I, both air traffic controllers, are proud parents to a delightful one year old who brings immeasurable joy and wonder into our lives. Beyond the realm of aviation, I am an active member of the National Drama Company, expressing my creativity through acting, poetry, and dance. In addition to my creative pursuits, I also serve as a leader, teacher and choreographer at my local church. Guiding and nurturing young minds allow me to contribute to my community in a meaningful way.”
Francesca Koenta-Wilson – Air Traffic Services Instructor
“I’ve dreamt of becoming many things growing up but a career in aviation was never one of those things. My passion for aviation grew after I visited the Control Tower in Timehri on a school tour. I felt the calling but I was unsure how to navigate towards that career path at that time since it felt so prestigious. After successful completion of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations in 2008, I pursued a formal career in teaching at my alma mater, JC Chandisingh Secondary School. Despite being meaningfully occupied, I still felt a longing for something more.
“In the early months of 2009, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority advertised for air traffic control assistants. I knew this was the stepping stone to achieving my dreams and without any second guessing, I immediately applied for that position. When I left the teaching profession, I had no idea I would still need to undergo training and undergo tests before I could be accepted. Any two consecutive failures, 70% would’ve made me ineligible for this position. But, I knew it was possible once I made the diligent effort to finish successfully. My motivation made it much easier. I officially became an air traffic control assistant/aeronautical information service officer in December, 2009. In 2012, I was selected for the Aerodrome/Approach Control training course. This training allowed me to become a Licensed Air traffic Control Officer with Aerodrome and Approach Ratings capable of working at the control towers in Cheddi Jagan and Eugene F Correia International Airports. After gaining approximately three years of experience, I received further training at the area control level where I attained ratings for area control service both procedural and surveillance in 2017. This means that I can provide air traffic control service in a wider airspace: managing international overflights and integrating local and international arrivals and departures in the mix. As fate would have it, I was meant to teach.
“Some of my senior colleagues encouraged me to consider my future as an instructor in air traffic control. I believe it was my willingness and pragmatic approach that they saw along with my patience to work along with others. In 2019, I received formal training from the International Civil Aviation Organisation as a Training Instructor. Currently, I am an Air Traffic Services Instructor with the Civil Aviation Training School, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority. While the majority of the time I’m tasked with training budding air traffic control assistants and controllers, I also work in the air traffic control facilities if called upon. As an instructor, I’m happy to be able to impart knowledge and offer guidance to trainees while exploring evolving training and facilitation methods that the world is adopting so that we can continue to provide excellence in training and a competent workforce for the aviation community.
“I look to the future with enthusiasm and hope that as our aviation industry continues to bloom, our air navigation systems and infrastructure will keep abreast with developments in the industry, aviation training will be more accessible locally and that I can continue to be part of this positive growth.”
Bibi Aafreeda Aleema Hakh – Pilot
“I am Bibi Aafreeda Aleema Hakh, a passionate and dedicated pilot in Guyana’s aviation sector, I have spent the last decade honing my skills and expertise as a pilot. My journey began at Aerial World Services Ltd, in Trinidad andTobago. I achieved my private pilot licence followed by my single-engine and commercial pilot credentials. I then proceeded to complete my multi-engine rating home in Guyana at Air Services Ltd. After becoming certified, I joined the Guyana Defence Force in 2017 as a Military Pilot, working at Aircorps, Air Station London in Timehri.
“Throughout my short but meaningful career, I have had the privilege of working with several experienced captains and training officers, contributing to military resupply activities, operational flights, medivacs, paratrooping, VIP passenger transport, and commercial operations, often in the challenging jungle and mountainous terrain. My approach to flying is characterised by a commitment to planning, execution, and passenger safety. I thrive on tackling challenges head-on.
“One of the proudest moments of my flight career was taking my parents and siblings flying from Piarco to Tobago for a day of fun-filled activities. This initial flight showcased my ability to command the aircraft while executing a successful, exciting, and emotionally rewarding solo flight.
“Throughout my career, I have always been ecstatic to share the hurdles I overcame, the workload was quite intensive and my lack of average height has always been the most difficult obstacle. My preflight kit always included an array of pillows! To date, my present colleagues can always know when I flew last, based solely on the seat adjustment. It is safe to say that I am one of the shortest in the bunch! Though establishing hands-on skills was difficult at first, I was always blessed to be guided by the most knowledgeable, kind-hearted instructors who are now synonymous with family. It is fair to say I was moulded by the best and for that, I am forever grateful.
“Alongside my professional pursuits, I am a firm believer in youth engagement and academic development, this has shaped not only my work but also my interactions within the aviation industry. In addition to my aviation credentials, I hold a Master of Science degree in Human Factors in Aviation from Coventry University in the United Kingdom, where I gained a solid academic foundation in aircraft safety, design, regulations, and flight personnel management. I am a firm advocate for continuous learning. I have since furthered my expertise through a postgraduate diploma in Human Resource Management, staying abreast with the latest trends and personnel policies that govern a healthy aviation industry.”
Tonique Wills – Licensed Air Traffic Controller (Aerodrome and Approach)
“I was born in Ithaca Village, West Bank Berbice. I received my secondary education at President’s College. I joined the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority in July 2011. I worked for the first five years in the Aeronautical Information Service department and as an air traffic control assistant at both the Timehri and Ogle towers. In 2016 myself and seven others were trained in Jamaica where I received my aerodrome and approach training. In 2021 I was trained locally at the Civil Aviation Training School, where I received my area procedural and surveillance rating. I am licensed locally and currently hold aerodrome, approach and area ratings.”
