Instructor Category: Grade 2

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.

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.

Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Melbourne, Grade 2 Learn To Fly Flight Instructor Brandon Sundaralingam has always loved anything aviation and travel-related. In 2017 he went for a Trial Introductory Flight and a session in the Boeing B737 simulator, and enjoyed it so much that he started flight training the following year.

After starting his training with another flight school, Brandon completed his CPL with us here at LTF. He then completed his MECIR with us, and then a Flight Instructor Rating, and now we’re thrilled to welcome him to our instructor team!

Brandon would one day like to see himself flying from the left seat of an Australia-based airline, and in the meantime:

“The sights you see from above are truly amazing, and the dynamic nature of flying keeps it fun/interesting 100% of the time.”