It’s the drive to make a positive difference that has kept Flight Standards Pilot, Marty Cram, flying for the RFDS for over 20 years.
His career, built on challenging his skills, drew him to the unpredictability of being an RFDS pilot.
“The day-to-day operations are never routine,” Marty said.
“Things can change very quickly in this role, and that was a big draw card for me.”
Prior to the RFDS, Marty flew with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Roulettes, a highly skilled aerobatic display team.
The precision required for that role continues to support his career today.
“The skills are very similar; it’s just adjusting and learning to use them for the different operational demands required of the RFDS,” he said.
“Being able to use those skills to assist someone in a time of need is incredibly rewarding.”
Over two decades, Marty has spent his fair share in the sky assisting in the delivery of essential healthcare across regional, rural and remote Queensland.
While he says no single event stands out above the rest, the shared values and dedication across the team have had the most impact.
“It’s the esprit de corps, the professionalism, and sense of purpose amongst all the people I have worked alongside,” he said.
Marty began his career at the RFDS as a line pilot before stepping into his current role training our pilot cohort.
“I hope the knowledge I pass on will benefit those new to the organisation in the same way those in my role mentored me,” he said.
For Marty, one of the best parts of his job is seeing new pilots, from all backgrounds, grow in both confidence and capability, eventually becoming seasoned aeromedical pilots themselves.
Marty’s advice to aspiring RFDS pilots is to simply give it a go.
