Erin Coyle
“I came from a small village and strived to be a pilot. I never imagined my dreams would come true because, usually, this wouldn’t happen for a village boy.”
While Nasser al Habsi from Al AKhdhar village in Samad Ashan may have had doubts that this would happen, not only has he been successful in the aviation field, but he published a book in Arabic, titled “The Pilot,” and signed copies at the International Book Fair in Muscat.
Watching groups and individuals, both females and males, stand in line for a picture and signature with the pilot, it was clear how much people admired, respected, and felt like their dreams could also come true.
Some said they wanted to learn more about aviation, while others said this book could help them get a better job for those already in the field.
One boy in grade 10 wants to be a pilot and found the book on Al Habsi’s Instagram @pilot_habsi. Since fourth grade, this boy has wanted to pursue flying and, at one point, feared flying. But, thanks to the book and the information about aviation, he’s ready to pursue his dream. A few others indicated that they bought the book for inspiration and to understand that it is possible to pursue your passions, no matter where you grew up.
Al Habsi’s passion for flying started in grade three or four. His older brother was an aviation maintenance technician for the Air Force. His brother would give him information on aeroplane types, how they work, and tips for pilots to stay healthy. The brother would refer to a younger Al Habsi as a future pilot. He was hooked immediately and focused on this field.
A humbling Al Habsi wants to encourage other Omanis that an aviation career is possible. He has published this book, highlighting his journey and offering tips for others. Al Habsi has a YouTube Channel, @glimpse_aviation. He constantly uploads knowledge and asks engaging questions on his Instagram @pilot_habsi about plane types, equipment, and highest altitude questions.
Al Habsi has 11 years of experience flying in civil aviation. It took him two years to complete his license. It was seven months of ground school; the rest was practical training. His journey was challenging because there was no information about aviation and no websites talking about it. Another obstacle he faced was that he was not encouraged enough because of the common idea that a boy from a small village could not become a pilot. Out of these struggles, he wanted to make it easier for others.
He started sharing his knowledge in his first year in the foundation program at the university by creating a website focusing on topics such as aviation and cabin crews. Having left the university in the second year to start his aviation training with an airline, he still wanted to continue providing information in this field. Several years later, he got the idea from a friend to start posting updates on Instagram. People began reaching out to him for advice. Teachers from his village invited Al Habsi and other boys to return and talk to the students as part of their success stories. Al Habsi indicated that the feedback from teachers and students was encouraging, as they started messaging him with more questions.
“The Pilot,” first written in 2018, has been updated with new additions and new sketches. The nine chapters include ones on growing up in Al AKhdhar, aviation options for students, and how he found his passion, among other topics.
Some advice he has for future Omanis wanting to get into aviation is to first ask why they want to be a pilot. For example, are they looking for prestige, respect, money, or a chance to travel? Al Habsi also points out that working as an employee for an airline is one thing, while flying is entirely different. And second, try to find a scholarship from an airline. Or, if this isn’t possible, study for a bachelor’s degree while looking for opportunities. As for Al Habsi, he will continue updating his aviation knowledge on his platforms while pursuing his dream of flying an Airbus 350. Al Habsi says it has all the technological advances and sees the Airbus as the future of aeroplanes. The plan is for the book to be on Amazon. However, those wanting to purchase the book now can message Al Habsi on Instagram at @pilot_habsi. Al Habsi intends to encourage and remind everyone that they can do anything they are passionate about.
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