THOMAS WOODS
ELGIN
Summary
Experienced pilot and line manager with over twenty years in the Royal Air Force, coordinating rotary and fixed-wing operations globally. Delivered safe and efficient transport for VIPs, including the UK Prime Minister and senior military leaders. Skilled in leading teams and ensuring high safety standards while meeting demanding operational requirements.
Overview
1
1
Certification
23
23
years of professional experience
Work history
Founder & Director
OspreyAir Ltd
2025.06 - Current
Established OspreyAir to provide free-lance pilot services using AW109SP helicopter, with plans for future expansion into fixed-wing platforms.
- Developed business strategy through comprehensive market research to identify opportunities and inform service offerings.
Officer Commanding B Flight (AW109SP)
No.32 (The Royal) Squadron RAF
2021.03 - 2025.03
- Supervised delivery of safe and timely rotary-wing VVIP capability for Royal Air Force, ensuring operational readiness and mission success.
- Deputised for Officer Commanding 32 Sqn, led 25+ skilled staff across aviation roles for rotary and fixed-wing fleets, fostering collaboration with civilian industry partners.
- Conducted risk to life analysis and implemented mitigation strategies for Accountable Manager, enhancing safety protocols.
AW109SP Pilot
No.32 (The Royal) Squadron RAF
2018.11 - 2021.03
- Maintained highest level of flying competency for single pilot VVIP operations, ensuring safety and compliance with CPL(H) IR(H) PBN standards.
- Led and managed team of eight, comprising pilots, engineers, and air operations staff, to execute rotary-wing VVIP operations for UK Defence, HM Government and UK Royal Family with precision and reliability.
Puma HC2 Qualified Helicopter Instructor
No.28 Squadron RAF
2015.01 - 2018.11
- Instructed ab-initio and refresher trainees in operating Puma HC2 support helicopter through classroom lessons, FSTD, and live aircraft instruction, enhancing trainee proficiency and safety.
- Coordinated course scheduling to optimise resource utilisation and maximise training output while upholding rigorous standards.
Various operational and training roles
Royal Air Force
2003.06 - 2025.06
Skills
- Aviation excellence
- Crisis leadership
- Client discretion
- Excellent customer service
- Integrity and honesty
Certification
- CPL(H) IR(H)
- CPL(A) IR(A) MEP
- Class 1 Medical - Single pilot
- Total Flying Hours:
- Helicopter: 2700 (1080 PIC and 500 FSTD)
- Airplane: 200 (110 PIC)
Timeline
Founder & Director
OspreyAir Ltd
2025.06 - Current
Officer Commanding B Flight (AW109SP)
No.32 (The Royal) Squadron RAF
2021.03 - 2025.03
AW109SP Pilot
No.32 (The Royal) Squadron RAF
2018.11 - 2021.03
Puma HC2 Qualified Helicopter Instructor
No.28 Squadron RAF
2015.01 - 2018.11
Various operational and training roles
Royal Air Force
2003.06 - 2025.06