Pilot Mark Podbery has been appointed Senior First Officer with The Little Jet Company which is based at Gloucestershire Airport.

The 38 year-old father of two is looking forward to the future with the executive jet company which has gone from strength to strength since it was set up in 2014.

‘We give our customers a high quality service and I wanted to become part of that,’

he said

‘It’s a small company where your role really means something.’

Mark was an IT consultant with his own business when he learnt to fly in 2010. He gained a private pilot license and then qualified as a commercial pilot in 2016.

He was previously a pilot for Flybe operating the Embraer 175/195 and has also worked in the Business Aviation Sector flying a Beechcraft Hawker before joining The Little Jet Company.

‘I don’t feel like I’m coming to work, I feel like I’m being paid to enjoy my hobby,’

he said.

‘The view when you are flying is the best thing ever. I enjoy being around the aircraft. Recently I was eating breakfast while the sun was rising on our way from Gloucester to Nice.

‘Every day is so different, and it keeps me interested all the time. You don’t have a daily routine in aviation. It makes it a really varied job.’

Mark, who lives in Lechlade-on-Thames, enjoys meeting the clients.

‘I enjoy the social side of welcoming the passengers,’

he said.

‘I want to give them a safe and individual experience.

‘We offer a fantastic service and a personal touch, paying attention to every detail for our clients. It is good to be able to offer that.’

The Little Jet Company provides services including privately owned jets for charter, management of aircraft and ground handling services.

Director Barry Preece said:

‘Our full time flight crew has expanded each year since The Little Jet Company was formed which we are delighted with. Employing the correct flight crew within our sector in aviation is important as they are the on board, front of house service, representing The Little Jet Company and deal directly with the travelling clients. We are delighted to welcome Mark to the team and his knowledge within the airline and business aviation industry was the perfect combination for us.’