Interview with a private jet pilot: Matt Cockram
One of my old RAF colleagues and friends Matt Cockram now flies the Global Express – one of the biggest and most luxurious long range private jets.
I caught up with Matt recently to ask him about his career as a private jet pilot and to find how his military background prepared him for it.
Q: So Matt, did you always want to be a pilot from a young age?
A: I had always been interested in the technical aspects of flight. And when I was 17 I decided I would like to follow my older brother into the RAF when I left school.
I was advised that I was too young to be a pilot, so I first joined as a Halton Technical Apprentice in 1988 after taking my GCSEs, with the aim of crossing over as soon as possible!
Within a year of finishing my apprenticeship, I applied. This was actually quite difficult in the RAF – more than I had realised! Their pilot recruitment and selection process is very rigorous.
As someone who was already an engineer apprentice, I had to work hard to convince everyone that it was the right move. The turning point I think was when I was given the opportunity to accompany a Squadron Boss on a flight in a supersonic Phantom. This gave my superiors the opportunity to assess my situational awareness and also made me even surer than ever that this was the job for me!
Q: How has your engineering background helped with your pilot career?
A: It’s definitely something I draw on all the time. I continued with my engineering studies as part of my pilot training, completing my degree in Aeromechanical Systems Engineering in 1995.
That background continues to serve me well now as a pilot. Not only do I have a thorough understanding of how the aircraft works, but it can save time too. Working closely with the engineers, I can quickly and fully interpret any issues with the aircraft and the wider implications of that. And it means I can (and often do) have a direct contact with Global Express’ manufacturer Bombardier on any technical queries, rather than always going through others.
Q: What are your best memories of your career in the RAF? Was it a difficult decision to leave?
A: My RAF career was a big part of my life – 21 years in total. It was a golden time, but something that can never be relived anyway. My contract came to an end in 2009 and it was time to move on.
My experiences were so varied and there are many highlights. But certainly these include active service in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Congo when I was a Senior Captain on the C-130 Hercules. And then as a Squadron Leader and Chief Pilot for RAF Sentinel operations at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire (the Sentinel is the military equivalent of the Global Express). There I was responsible for the successful first deployment and flying the first operational mission of the Sentinel in 2008, in Afghanistan. And I led several high profile events, such as hosting the Prince of Wales on a royal visit.
Q: And what advantage do you think your military background brings to your commercial career?
A: The flying skills you gain in the RAF are second-to-none – such as air-to-air refuelling, tactical low-level flying and airshow flypasts. Commercial pilots don’t really need to do any of those, but having that kind of experience gives you the confidence to deal with any unforeseen circumstances.
The non-flying skills are very transferable. I think a military career creates a strong sense of discipline and a very organised mindset. And by the end of my time in RAF I was personally managing 5 aircraft and 20 pilots – these management skills are very useful.
Q: Why did you decide to go into private aviation, rather than airlines?
A: Towards the end of my RAF career I kept a open mind on my next career move. I wanted to explore the options. But then the opportunity came up to fly a privately-owned Global Express XRS based at London Farnborough Airport. This was a very smooth transfer from the Sentinel – the military equivalent, as the flight deck operations are identical.
I really enjoy the varied nature of private aviation. You experience different routes, different landings, different schedules. No day is ever the same.
And I enjoy the operational decision-making required, such as choosing airports, fuel suppliers and FBOs.
Q: You fly the Global Express now. What do you think makes it so popular?
A: There are now nearly 650 Globals in service and it’s proven to be a lasting design. From a pilot point of view, it’s a fabulous aircraft to fly – very manoeuverable, sleek and fast. And Bombardier provide great technical support – anywhere in the world!
From a passenger perspective, it’s first class. The Global’s range allows it to reach far flung destinations while also being able to operate from smaller runways. And of course it’s very spacious, comfortable and luxurious inside. Overall it’s a great brand that makes the passenger feel special – and pilots of Globals are very proud to fly one too.
Read more: The Bombardier Global family
Q: What is your favourite landing?
A: In the Air Force I experienced some pretty amazing landings, but I can’t talk about some of those! In civilian flying, I love flying into Aspen. The views are amazing and the weather often makes it a challenging approach.
Q: As a pilot, what do you always carry in your flight bag?
I’d say the three essentials in my flight bag are:
1) The aircraft’s technical information
2) My non-polarised Ray-Bans (I only ever wear these for work, they are the best sunglasses for flying and I’ve had the same pair for 8 years)
3) A pen and paper. No matter how much technology is enhancing the role of a pilot, for me a notepad is an absolute essential!
Q: So what’s next for you Matt?
A: At the moment I am freelancing, after taking a sabbatical over the winter for a new baby – so home is pretty busy! But I am now looking for a permanent position and hopefully on a private Global.
To charter a Global Express or Global 6000, contact us or call our Flight Team (24 hours) on +44 1747 642 777.
(Matt Cockram is currently flying as a freelance pilot, and looking for a new permanent role flying the Global Express XRS. Email: matthew.cockram@gmail.com)
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