Interview with a Pilot: Mary Betts

What was your first flight?
From Wycombe Air Centre in a Cessna 152.

Are there any parallels between acting and flying?
Yes, as an actor you need to be quite thick skinned and good at taking criticism and learning from it, the same applies when training to be a pilot. Every theatrical performance is different, this sets unexpected challenges. You have to adapt well when under that pressure and remain focused whilst multi-tasking in a live performance. You're always travelling and working with new people. As with a career in aviation acting isn't a 9-5 job, it's a lifestyle that requires an adventurous spirit.

What's on your annual training schedule?
I need to keep current with my fixed wing ratings this involves an annual renewal. At this stage I need to fly as much as possible with a more experienced pilot. There is always so much to learn.

Favourite airport approach or helicopter landing sites and why?
I finished off my hour building in Florida and flew to 'Cedar Keys'. It has a short runway, surrounded by smaller islands with lots of water, quite open to all the elements. Not for the faint hearted in a strong crosswind.

The scenery is quite breathtaking and daunting when taking off into the Mexico Gulf waters. I'll never forget being asked on the radio if I needed a taxi when I was 300ft off the ground trying to land at this complex airport.

What's your most memorable flight?
I flew from Key West to Kissimmee then onto New Orleans in the same day. A 700nm flight that took 7 hours. I only needed 300nm for my cross country but I just carried on going. The weather was stunning and with the company of my father we had one of the most memorable days together.

Top flying tip?
Organisation is the key to success. Never leave the ground without fully planning your trip, even if it's just a short flight in your local area.

What's the best piece of flying advice given to you?
Enjoy the moment because when it stops you need to move on.

As a pilot what question do you get asked the most?
Don't you get scared?

What do you love about your job? 
Well you get the best office view in the world. Every day is different with a new challenge. I love travelling, having an adventure and enjoy the solitude environment that the cockpit gives. I don't enjoy a 9-5 job so this career gives me the lifestyle I so desire.

What's your least favourite thing about your job? 
I'm still waiting for a job so ask me in a few months time!

Who's your aviation hero?
I recently watched a documentary called 'Spitfire Women'. It was incredibly moving and showcased a remarkable band of female pilots who joined the Air Transport Auxiliary. Without them the war may never have been won. A true inspiration.

Favourite aircraft and why?
Piaggio P180 Avanti II. It has all the interior luxuries of a jet but far cheaper to run and requires less distance for take-off and landing. There aren't any in the UK at the moment but I think we'll start to see more of these as the years progress.

Where was your last flight (to and from)?
Bristol International for my Instrument Rating (IR) test via BADIM and Cardiff!

What's the one thing you always pack for every flight?
When training I always carried a spare radio.

Future of Flying

What's the one thing you think will change private aviation in the next 5 years? 
I think private charters will start to become more popular. People are tired of all the queues and delays what with travelling now being so affordable and accessible. Time is money therefore people want a faster and more efficient route.

What advice would you pass on to someone who wants to be a private jet pilot
Motivation and determination is required to complete the training. You need to work well under pressure, be a good communicator and demonstrate leadership qualities. Lastly, my passion of flying superseded any major hurdles!

What's the biggest change in aviation during your flying career? 
The syllabus is constantly changing and technology updating rapidly. I'm pleased to have finished everything before EASA is established. I think there could be some confusion whilst certain conditions are altered.

What's your favourite city? 
Venice, there is no other place quite like it.

What car do you drive? 
No car just a motorbike, Ducati Monster.

Do you fly off for your holidays or "staycation"? 
I'll fly anywhere for an adventure.

When you fly by scheduled airline are you first in the check-in queue or are you last on the plane? 
To be honest both. If it's long haul I'll be on first, short haul I'll wait till everyone is boarded.

What's your least favourite thing about flying by scheduled airline? 
Queues!!