Instructor Category: Grade 2

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.

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.”