Instructor Category: Grade 2

Aleyna’s journey into aviation was sparked by a spur-of-the-moment decision, but what kept her flying was the immense pride and joy it brought to her grandparents. Their support inspired her to persist, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Beginning her training in 2021 as part of her bachelor’s degree, Aleyna quickly immersed herself in every aspect of aviation, gaining experience in flight operations, maintenance, and scheduling. After completing her degree, she spent a year teaching at RMIT before joining our team at Learn To Fly. 

Aleyna’s teaching style is all about balance: she believes in working hard but making sure her students have fun along the way. What she enjoys most about instructing is supporting students as they reach significant milestones. For Aleyna, moments like sending her first student solo or watching someone she’s guided pass their flight test are incredibly rewarding. 

One of her most memorable experiences involved ferrying across the bay with her mentor, who showed her the importance of enjoying the journey as much as the destination. These times spent learning alongside her mentor left a lasting impression on her approach to teaching.

When she’s not in the sky, Aleyna loves exploring new places, spending time with friends, and enjoying quiet moments to recharge.

Kim was born and raised on a cattle farm in rural Victoria, two hours southeast of Melbourne. His passion for aviation was ignited during a family holiday when a pilot gave him a tour of an aircraft’s flight deck. After completing Year 12 at St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School, Kim moved to Melbourne to pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science (Aviation) and obtained her Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

One of Kim’s most memorable experiences in aviation was completing his aerobatics training. Inspired by this achievement, he aims to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to instruct aerobatics and spinning training. Additionally, Kim aspires to obtain his Grade 1 training endorsement. Kim’s future aviation goals include working in either the Search and Rescue sector or with the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Outside of aviation, Kim enjoys playing football for the Leongatha Parrots, spending time with friends and family, and visiting his family farm whenever possible. These activities help him maintain a healthy work-life balance, allowing him to give his best to his work and students.

Rebecca Zhang was born and raised in Melbourne. Her journey into the world of aviation began with a solid educational foundation, as she completed her Bachelor’s degree before embarking on a career in food manufacturing in Sydney. However, it was the allure of the skies that ultimately captured her interest.

Rebecca’s formal aviation training took place at Learn To Fly Melbourne, where she successfully obtained both a Private Pilot License (PPL) and a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). Her foray into flying was not an immediate one; it was sparked by her father’s influence, and her curiosity only deepened over the years. The turning point occurred after a Trial Introductory Flight, prompting her to transition from curiosity to action and enrol in flight training.

In both the short and long term, Rebecca is enthusiastic about contributing to the aviation community. Currently focusing on honing her skills and assisting aspiring aviators. Ultimately, she aspires to work in the airlines, leveraging her expertise to contribute to the broader aviation industry.

Outside the cockpit, Rebecca enjoys a variety of personal interests and hobbies. Whether exploring new destinations, immersing herself in literature, or embracing the outdoors, she values the balance between her professional and personal life.

Seb’s journey into the world of aviation was a destined path that began as far back as memory serves. His fascination with aviation was ingrained in the hours spent meticulously assembling and flying model planes and the countless visits to airport lookouts. At the age of 16, Seb took his first Trial Introductory Flight (TIF). This experience was like the final piece of a puzzle falling into place, confirming his career direction. He embarked on his aviation journey immediately after completing school.

In his younger years, Seb harboured dreams of becoming a fast jet pilot, perhaps inspired by the allure of Top Gun. However, as he matured, his aspirations evolved. The path that once led to fighter jets transformed into a desire for an airline career, followed by a potential transition to corporate flying or even the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) should the opportunity arise.

In the short term, Seb envisions a continued journey towards becoming a Grade 1 flight instructor, with ambitions to eventually attain the coveted Grade 1 status. Along this path, he hopes to expand his teaching repertoire, specializing in tailwheel and multi-engine instrument flight rating (IFR) instruction. As he imparts his knowledge and experience to aspiring pilots, he continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation.

Outside the realm of aviation, Seb finds solace in the warm embrace of summer and embraces an active lifestyle. His dedication to fitness and an active routine serve as a counterbalance to his intense study and work commitments.

Ian’s journey into the world of aviation began in Zimbabwe. The dream of taking flight had always been a constant in his life, tracing its origins to a pivotal moment when he received a Trial Instructional Flight (TIF) for his 16th birthday. This experience ignited a passion that would shape his future.

To realise his dream, Ian embarked on a path that led him to South Africa, where he completed his PPL. It was here that he took his first substantive steps into the world of aviation, setting a trajectory for a promising career

Ian’s journey led him to us at Learn To Fly, where he pursued our comprehensive training program that would take him from the fundamentals to expertise, culminating in the attainment of his instructor rating. Ian’s educational journey also included the completion of the CPL Diploma at LTF, marking another milestone in his pursuit of aviation excellence.

Aspirations for Ian extend far into the horizon — his ultimate goal is to serve either with the Royal Flying Doctor Service or as part of a major airline. His aspirations are not limited by the destination but rather fueled by the challenge and dynamism that aviation offers, an environment where no two days are alike.

Ian seeks balance in life by keeping active during his time off and cherishing moments spent with friends. The camaraderie and adventures shared with mates provide an integral part of balance in his life.

Rudy has harboured a profound fascination with aviation since his early years, captivated by the sight of planes flying overhead and driven to understand the mechanics of flight. This enthusiasm guided his educational choices, aligning his subjects to complement a future career in aviation. In 2015, he completed a transformative Training Introductory Flight at Tooradin, further cementing his desire to take to the skies as a pilot.

His entire journey has been shaped by the ambition to become a pilot, ultimately leading him to his current position at Learn To Fly Melbourne.

Initially aspiring to be an airline pilot, Rudy’s exposure to the diverse pathways and facets of the industry shifted his ambitions. He realised there was much to explore before committing to a specific career path within the aviation domain.

In his pursuit, Rudy completed his Secondary Education VCE in 2015, covering subjects like English, Mathematics Methods, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Systems Engineering. He subsequently pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation at Swinburne University of Technology, focusing on Human Factors, Meteorology, Aerodynamics, Aviation Law, Aircraft Systems, Flight Planning, and Navigation.

Describing himself as outgoing, determined, positive, and enthusiastic, Rudy’s personal interests include motorsport, travel, golf, and spending time at the gym. In his current role as a Grade 2 Flight Instructor, Rudy relishes the challenges of instructing, the camaraderie of the LTF team, and the joy of flying various aircraft, which fuel his passion for the aviation world. Looking ahead, Rudy remains open to the diverse possibilities the aviation industry offers, eager to explore and make a meaningful impact.

Terry’s fascination with aircraft and their intricate workings began during school days, as his science teacher would employ the Airbus A380 as a constant case study. This early exposure began a lasting passion for aviation that would shape his future.

Although his early years were primarily dedicated to the insurance industry, Terry’s trajectory took a turn when the opportunity to begin flying presented itself. Terry made a remarkable transformation as he pursued and achieved his Bachelor of Aviation. Beyond his formal education, Terry embraced the adventurous spirit of aviation by delving into Seaplane and Aerobatics ratings, adding further dimensions to his skillset. Terry’s flight path led him to command hours from Shepparton, a journey marked by traversing outback navigation routes. The ever-changing challenges of the Australian outback became an integral part of his flying experience, adding a unique element to his story.

His sights are now set on a new chapter: sharing his accrued wisdom and insights to guide and support aspiring aviators. His ambition is to empower students, enhancing their learning journey by imparting the wealth of knowledge he has accumulated over his aviation odyssey. Terry’s dedication to education and his commitment to passing on his experiences will undoubtedly shape the aviation dreams of future pilots, future first officers and future first captains.

Martin’s fascination with aviation took root when a family trip exposed him to the world of flying. A chance to explore the cockpit ignited a lifelong passion for aviation.

Having completed a Bachelor of Aviation in Queensland, followed by rigorous training at the Qantas Group Pilot Academy, he relocated to Melbourne and further fortified his expertise by achieving his G3 FIR at Learn To Fly. Martin aspires to progress through the instructing ranks, aiming for Grade 2 and, ultimately, a Grade 1. Beyond his instructional role, his sights are set on serving with either the Royal Flying Doctor Service or the airlines.

When Martin’s feet are on the ground, he finds joy in sports like Cricket, AFL (where he passionately supports West Coast), and Formula 1. His curiosity about the world drives him to explore different cultures through travel, an endeavour that enriches his perspective. Martin finds profound fulfilment in imparting his wisdom to eager minds, witnessing their growth, and guiding them toward achieving their flying ambitions. Through every takeoff and landing, Martin’s journey continues to be one of passion, determination, and pursuit.

Alex grew up in Hong Kong and later moved to Melbourne at the age of 15. After completing high school in Melbourne, Alex embarked on their flight training journey.

Having spent time at the Hong Kong International Airport during their upbringing, Alex developed a profound fascination for aviation. Witnessing the aircraft on the ground and in the air conducting operations sparked their interest in pursuing a career as a pilot. In high school, as Alex delved deeper into flight training, the realisation of the opportunity to become a pilot solidified their decision to follow this path wholeheartedly.

Alex’s flight training commenced where they honed their skills for about a year before transitioning to completing their Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot Training) and obtained their RPL, PPL, CPL, and FIR licenses.

Presently, as a Grade 3 flight instructor, Alex’s sights are set on further progression. The aspiration is to upgrade to Grade 2 and attain additional ratings and endorsements, including multi-engine class rating and IFR. Alex also expresses an eagerness to fly and teach with tailwheel aircraft. Ultimately, his dream is to work for a major international airline.

The allure of flying lies in the exhilarating experience and the breathtaking views it offers. The ability to multitask and maintain control of an aircraft serves as a constant source of fascination for Alex. In his role as a flight instructor, Alex finds immense satisfaction in assisting others in achieving their dreams of becoming pilots.

Outside of aviation, Alex enjoys playing soccer in their leisure time, though they humorously admit not being the most skilled player.

Growing up, it was flying RC Model Aircraft that sparked Jake’s interest in aviation. Having attended airshows and completed a Trial Introductory Flight, a decision was made then to pursue aviation after school.

In 2014 Jake started flying lessons and trained/studied part-time while working. He then completed an Instructor Rating in 2018 where he then worked as an Instructor. Jake aims to become a Grade 1 Instructor, to complete his Multi-Engine and Instrument Rating — and then eventually fly larger aircraft in charter/air transport operations. 

Outside of flying, Jake enjoys the outdoors, camping, fishing, hiking and follows AFL (Big Western Bulldogs Fan!) and the F1. Jake prides himself on being a bit of a perfectionist, attentive and considerate person (we agree!).

Ask Jake what he enjoys most about his job and he will tell you two things — flying, and seeing students progress through the training.