HE’S ONLY 20 YEARS OLD MEET AIR SERBIA’S YOUNGEST PILOT Nemanja Banić Jr is a first officer on the Serbian national airline’s Airbus A319 aircraft, having flown for the national carrier since 15 th February H e's the youngest pilot in the history of Air Serbia. At just 20 years of age, he has to date already had an opportunity to fly numerous regular routes with the fleet’s Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. Making a special impression on him were captains Miodrag Živković and Mladen Dragić, who taught him about precision, professionalism and effective decision-making in complex situations. This dedicated young man says that joining the Air Serbia team represents a dream come true for him, but also a great professional honour... “I fly Airbus A319 and A320 planes, which is a huge privilege for me, particularly given that I’m the company’s youngest pilot. This opportunity provides me with additional motivation to improve constantly and justify the trust shown in me.” What did you find particularly interesting during your training? “The most interesting part was work in the simulator, where I gained precious experience of controlling the aircraft in complex situations. The advice and commitment of instructor Nemanja Ivanovic impacted massively on my knowledge and skills. He helped me develop my confidence in the cockpit and prepare for the real challenges of flying.” Why did you opt in particular to pursue a career as a pilot? “My love for flying developed during my childhood. I was fascinated by the idea of flying an aeroplane and the feeling of freedom it brings. It was already during my high school days that I made the decision to become a pilot, driven by my passion for aviation, the challenges it brings and the desire to do a job that I find fulfilling and motivating.”
Najviše volim osećaj slobode i perspektivu koju letenje pruža I most like the feeling of freedom and the perspective that flying provides avijacijom. Moja najveća pažnja usmerena je na sigurnost i udobnost leta. Trudim se da svaki let prođe bezbedno, uz stalno praćenje svih parametara i uslova kako bi se putnici osećali sigurno i opušteno. Šta je vaš profesionalni cilj kao mlađeg kopilota u Er Srbiji na „erbas“ avionu? – Moj glavni cilj je da nastavim da razvijam svoje veštine i iskustvo kako bih jednog dana postao kapetan. U međuvremenu želim da doprinesem timu svojim znanjem i entuzijazmom, uz stalno usavršavanje kako bih ispunio najviše standarde Er Srbije. Voleo bih da jednog dana upravljam avionom „erbas A330“, jer me fasciniraju interkontinentalni letovi i izazovi koje dugi letovi nose. Smatram da bi rad na širokotrupnom avionu bio korak dalje u mojoj karijeri i prilika da dodatno razvijem svoje pilotske sposobnosti.
Which types of aircraft have you flown so far? “I previously had an opportunity, during my schooling, to fly training aircraft like the Cessna 172, Piper PA-38 and PA-44, but I now fly the Airbus A320. This type of aircraft is exceptionally reliable and adaptable, known for its efficiency and advanced technology. The “fly-by-wire” system enables increased precision in control, while the comfort and safety it provides for passengers make it one of the favourite aircraft for short and medium- distance flights.” What do you love the most about flying; and to what do you pay the most attention while flying? “I most like the feeling of freedom and the perspective that flying provides. Each flight is a unique experience that combines technical knowhow and skills with a passion for aviation. My attention is focused the most on the safety and comfort of the flight. I strive to ensure every flight is operated safely, with the constant monitoring of all parameters and conditions to ensure passengers feel safe and relaxed.” As a junior first officer at Air Serbia working with Airbus aircraft, what is your professional objective? “My main objective is to continue developing my skills and experience so that I can one day become a captain. In the meantime, I want to contribute to the team with my knowledge and enthusiasm, while I also want to improve constantly to ensure that I satisfy Air Serbia’s highest standards. I would one day like to fly an Airbus A330, as I’m fascinated by intercontinental flight and the challenges brought by long haul flights. I consider working on a wide-body aircraft as a step forward in my career and an opportunity to develop my piloting skills further.”
Tekst / Words: Vanja Savić Fotografije / Photography: Er Srbija
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