Alfie Payne

I am currently completing my private pilots license with Donair at East Midlands Airport. I have begun to study the theory involved and have fortnightly lessons (weather depending). I am also currently in the process of organising my Class 2 CAA medical in order to complete solo flights.

During the week spent in Security at East Midlands Airport, I experienced and participated in the following:

• Monitoring the screening of passengers' luggage including bag and body searches.
• Onsite security checks including checking security doors, visiting gatehouses and ensuring that no unauthorised people were present.
• Visiting the Air Traffic Control tower and experiencing communications with aircraft and ground vehicles.
• Tours of the car parks and the security procedures involved with these.
• Visiting the fire station and learning about the procedures needed in case of an emergency.
• Taking part in airfield tours around the Central, Westside and Eastside aprons of the airfield.
• Experience of dealing with passenger queries and the steps taken to resolve these.
• Regular opportunities to ask questions and further understanding of airport procedures and operations.

I participated in a 2 hour long flight in a light aircraft (Cessna 152) from Nottingham City Airport. During this flight, I experienced independently flying the aircraft under the guidance of a qualified pilot. I communicated with the local air traffic control during the flight, relaying key information when necessary. Throughout the flight, the pilot narrated everything they were doing and gave me the opportunity to ask questions about the aircraft and its operating procedures.