Doan A•••

About

On the record

I am a Canadian ATPL pilot with over 2700 hours, 1200 as pilot in command. I have a wide range of experiences including low level pipeline patrols, skydive operations, LiDAR surveys, charter and scheduled passenger service on 6 aircraft types including 2 turbo prop aircraft. I have been flying for 13 years, commercially for 8. I started my my training with Vital Aviation in Nanaimo, BC and attended their dessert CPL course held in Parker, Arizona. My commercial and Multi IFR were later completed at Victoria Flying Club. Prior to making the leap to aviation I was primarily in retail sales and management. This included Telus, Rogers, Wireless Wave, TBooth, Wireless Etc, Tom Harris Cellular and a small TV/Furniture store called The Place TV in my home town. I was a sales representative for home/car entertainment, satellite TV (including their installation), Radio Shack products, plus sold and supported mobile services provided by Telus Mobility and Rogers AT & T. My first year of flying was with EnviroTech flying pipeline patrols out of Edmonton in a 172 flying as low as 300 AGL for up to 9.5 hours non-stop. Next I worked a season of flying Skydivers in Qualicum Beach with Skydive Vancouver Island. I learned all about energy management to make the turns as quick as I could without stressing the aircraft and showing everyone a great time! During COVID I was able to secure a first officer position on the Navajo at SkyCare Air Ambulance. I was based in Saint Andrews but spent most of my time in Sioux Lookout and flew charter services all over Ontario and Manitoba. I next found work flying LiDAR surveys for Terrasaurus Aerial Photography. This was a great job that took me across the country and introduced me to some great people in all corners. My longest single day airtime record took me from Cochrane, Ontario to Airdrie, Alberta with stops in Sioux Lookout and Yorkton (13 hours). Next I was a Navajo captain with Cascadia Airways in Pitt Meadows. It was my first multi crew, multi engine pilot in command position and I definitely took a lot away from it. When Cascadia ceased operations I fortunately and finally landed with Pacific Coastal Airlines, where I have held positions on both the B1900 and Saab 340. In my spare time I like to hike, kayak, and road trip with my much better half and our Golden Retriever. We have also fostered rescue dogs for the local humane society which has its challenges and joys. Whenever I can I fly for fun still and I participate in a small mentorship group that helps new or low time pilots.