Flying start: Next generation of aviation engineers graduate with Loganair

Trained on arguably the most diverse fleet of any commercial airline, six mechanical engineers have graduated following a four year modern apprenticeship with the UK’s largest regional airline Loganair – and will now become full time members of staff.

The Loganair Modern Apprentice programme on Aircraft Maintenance (SCQF Level 6) is a four-year structured programme which allows apprentices to receive a salary while studying and undertaking on-the-job training. On competition, each apprentice obtains a UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Part 66 aircraft maintenance licence.

Loganair engineers provide a range of quality maintenance services to support the airline’s fleet, which sees 42 aircraft operate across 70 routes. This means trainees develop experience with smaller planes, including a DHC6 Twin Otter, and BN2 Islander as well as mid-size and larger aircraft, including ATR 42s and 72s, Saab 340s and Embraer 135s and 145s.

Aside from the technical skills gained, Loganair’s modern apprentices also build on their core skill competencies with oversight from the training department and local workplace mentors. Valuable transferable skills such as a practical understanding of health and safety, time management, and career development paths also supplement the vocational and academic elements of the programme.

Among the latest graduates is Matthew O’Donnell, aged 21 from Glasgow, who is thought to be the first in Scotland to complete the new modern apprenticeship pathway at Loganair, Pathway F.

Matthew said: “The apprenticeship has been challenging but such a great experience with exposure to five different types of aircraft. Working with Loganair and its unique network provides a great opportunity, especially for a trainee.

“For anyone considering applying to be in the next intake, I’d highly recommend it. You require great problem-solving skills as you’re often troubleshooting and fault finding but the Loganair team are very supportive.”

Graduating alongside Matthew at a special ceremony on Thursday 9 February at Loganair HQ Glasgow, are Aaron Shepherd, Greg Laird and Scott Greenhorn also from Glasgow and Ross Irvine and Andrew Howden both from Aberdeen.

Gordon Keary, Head of engineering training at Loganair, said: “It has been a stellar effort from all involved in the 2018 cohort to complete all the requirements for graduation. It’s a pleasure to now welcome them as full time members of the Loganair workforce.

“Looking ahead, we’ll soon be welcoming applications for the spring 2023 intake of eight new modern apprentices – which will be our biggest-ever in one year.”

Loganair trains and employs engineers across its network with maintenance operations currently based in Glasgow, Aberdeen, Isle of Man and Orkney.

For more information about careers at Loganair, visit www.loganair.co.uk/info/careers/

Pictured: Jonathan Hinkles (CEO), Matthew O’Donnell, Greg Laird, Elizabeth MacLean (Engineering Administrator), Aaron Shepherd, Scott Greenhorn, Ross Wilson, Andrew Howden, Derek Johnstone, Brendan Doran (The Tell Organisation), Carolyn Johnstone (The Tell Organisation), Dave Exon (CTO).