PS Arora (45) wanted to become a doctor. But destiny had other plans for him and today, he is a pilot. Flying for Indian Airlines over the past 10 years, Arora is a happy man. This writer caught up with him at Computer Shop on Brigade Road in Bangalore where he was hunting for game CDs.
How did you become an airline pilot?
I wanted to become a doctor but couldn’t get through the qualifying exam. Then, I joined the NCC Wing in Delhi University where I was selected (as one of the 10 best cadets) for a 60 hour aviation course. I got a private pilot’s licence and then a job with Indian Airlines. Now I feel it’s a better profession than a doctor’s.
What do you like about the job?
Good money and you meet the best people… from businessmen, politicians, bureaucrats to models, fashion designers and film actresses. You get to see the best places in the world. Ask any child. They only have two ambitions: either to become a doctor or a pilot. But all the doctors I have met want to be pilots!
You must be earning a fantastic salary?
No comment.
What’s your major expense on?
CDs. I own CDs worth Rs 3 lakh.
How many hours do you fly a day?
6 1/2 hours. Sometimes, it’s 9 1/2 hours.
Are you trained for emergencies?
Sure. Every once in a year, we have a simulator session where we deal with emergencies like the engine catching fire, the wheel getting jammed, evacuation, etc. But in my 10 years, there haven’t been any snags. Touch Wood! Air travel is the safest. More people get killed on the roads. Tell you the truth, I’m more scared to hit the roads.
Tell us something strange about being a pilot.
In every plane, there are 2 pilots, one for back up in case the other pilot is unwell. For the same reason, both the pilots cannot eat the same food… if it’s food poisoning, both will fall ill.
How often are you with your family?
Home is a distant dream. I fly 6 days a week. My wife finds it difficult, and it’s a trial for her and our child. I keep in touch with them over my ‘roaming phone’ every alternate day.
What does the job require most?
Physical fitness. Pilots are supposed to be young till they retire. Every 6 months, we need to pass a medical test, without which we cannot fly. The test is tough compared to other countries… they are done by air force people who go by air force standards.
Done anything exciting lately?
I bungee jumped in Dubai last year. I saw 2 or 3 ‘oldies’ (senior pilots) doing it and I thought why not me. I paid Rs 2,000 to jump from a height of 150 feet. In the beginning my heart was racing, but after that it became normal.
How would you describe a pilot?
He must be patient, with a sharp mind, a cool-head and able to make quick decisions. A man like me.
