High utilization demands equally high standards. “At Zil Air, we place a strong emphasis
on recurrent training with
pilots undergoing evaluations every six months under the supervision of external instructors and examiners. This ensures that
skills remain sharp and aligned
with the latest operational and safety benchmarks,” Savy says. “For more advanced aircraft trainings, pilots are sent to FlightSafety International, one of the world’s leading aviation training institutions, where they receive type- specific instruction in highly controlled, simulator-based environments.”
This strong focus on continuous training and professional development is also what makes Zil Air particularly attractive from a pilot’s perspective. For Capt. Ryno Carstens, it was a key factor in his decision to join the company. “My decision to join Zil Air was driven by the unique nature of the operation and the opportunity to expand my experience as a pilot. Coming from Namibia, where flying is often over vast and remote landscapes, I was drawn to the contrast of island-based operations. Zil Air’s strong reputation for safety, professionalism, and premium service also played a big
role. It offered the chance to be part of a highly skilled team while operating in one of the most visually stunning environments in the world,” he explains.
Beyond the training and high operational standards, it is the dynamic environment that truly defines the pilot experience at Zil Air. “The most rewarding aspect is the variety,” says Capt. Jude Zelime. “At Zil Air, no two days are ever the same. One moment I might be conducting inter- island transfers, and the next, supporting medevac missions, scenic flights, VIP transfers, or special operations. Flying in this environment keeps me constantly alert, adaptable, and fully engaged. What I find especially fulfilling, however, is interacting with guests experiencing my country and its islands from above for the very first time. Their excitement is a powerful reminder of just how unique this job truly is.”
What is also particularly unique about this job are the flight hours. “At the height of the season, Zil Air can operate up to 60 flight sectors per day, accumulating approximately 4,000 helicopter flight hours annually,” said Savy.
While they operate in what many would consider a paradise, the job still comes with its own set of challenges. Savy said, “The remoteness from source markets, tropical weather variability, marine environmental exposure, high logistics costs, and rising regulatory compliance costs are all factors that present challenges when flying through the skies of Seychelles.”
Against this backdrop, the pace at Zil Air requires pilots to remain consistently focused, adaptable, and efficient. ”With multiple flights each day and a wide range of
operational demands, it
sharpens your decision-making and time-management skills. You learn to maintain a high standard of performance while working within a structured and safety driven environment. The intensity ensures that you are always thinking ahead, managing risks and refining your skills. Overall, it has made me a more precise pilot that’s capable of handling a wide range of operational scenarios,” said Carstens.
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