Interview with a flight instructor: discovering trade secrets

Becoming an airline pilot is a dream that combines passion, discipline, and an exceptionally high level of preparation. Behind every pilot sitting at the controls of a modern airliner lies a journey of intense study, rigorous training, and, above all, guidance from expert professionals. Among these, the Senior Flight Instructor plays a crucial role: they are not merely teachers, but mentors who forge the mindset and skills of tomorrow’s Captains.

To fully understand what it means to train the next generation of pilots, we had the privilege of sitting in the "right seat" (traditionally occupied by the instructor) with Captain Anthony Vitolo, one of the most experienced flight instructors at Aviomar Flight Academy. With a twenty-year career as an airline pilot on complex aircraft and now serving as a Type Rating Instructor (TRI) and Examiner (TRE) at our school, Captain Vitolo represents the excellence and dedication that Aviomar—with over 40 years of history and a strategic partnership with Ryanair—instils in every student. In this exclusive interview, he reveals his role, the most complex challenges, the greatest rewards, and some precious "trade secrets" for anyone aspiring to a career in the skies.

From Airline Pilot to Mentor: What drove you to become an instructor?
Captain Vitolo: (Smiles) I often tell my students that I am a lucky man: I have never worked a day in my life. When your greatest passion coincides with your profession, waking up in the morning to go flying isn't work; it is a privilege. After many years on the flight deck of an airline, I felt a strong desire to give back some of what aviation has given me. It is not just about transmitting technical notions, but sharing an experience, a mindset. Seeing that same spark of passion in young students and being able to guide them on their path is a priceless feeling. It is a way to ensure that the legacy of safety and professionalism that defines this sector continues to live on in new generations.

Beyond the controls: What is the true role of an ATPL instructor?
Captain Vitolo: Many think our job is simply teaching how to fly an aeroplane. In reality, that is just the beginning. Our true objective is to forge aviation professionals. This means imparting a deep-rooted "safety culture" that must become instinctive. A pilot must know aviation regulations, the operation of every onboard system, and standard operating procedures like the back of their hand. Being a good pilot is not enough to be a good instructor. One must have distinct pedagogical skills. Every student is different; they learn at a different pace and require a personalised approach. Our work at Aviomar is also to develop effective training pathways, adapting teaching methodologies to maximise everyone's potential. We guide cadets on the Integrated ATPL course through a theoretical knowledge syllabus of approximately 750 hours and countless flight missions, ensuring that every concept—from meteorology to flight planning—is not just memorised, but understood and internalised.

What are the biggest challenges in training tomorrow's pilots?
Captain Vitolo: The challenges are daily, and they are what makes this role so stimulating. I would say they can be summarised in three main areas.

• The Human Element: Aptitude and Motivation The first challenge is managing the diversity of students. I have my own formula, consolidated by experience: a pilot's performance is the sum of aptitude (innate talent) and training, all multiplied by motivation. Motivation is the most powerful factor. An extremely talented but unmotivated student will not go far. Conversely, a cadet with average talent but iron determination can achieve exceptional results. Our task is to recognise everyone's potential, bridge the gaps, and, above all, constantly fuel that inner flame that pushes them to exceed their limits.
• Managing Fear In aviation, fear is not an enemy to be defeated, but an ally to be managed. A pilot who says "I fear nothing" worries me. Fear—or rather, a healthy respect for risk—is what keeps you alert, makes you critically analyse a situation, and pushes you to take prudent decisions. During training, especially in emergency simulations, we do not teach how to eliminate fear, but how to channel it. We transform it into concentration, clarity, and situational awareness. A mature pilot is not someone who has no fear, but someone who knows how to use it to think better.
• The Greatest Responsibility What is my greatest fear as an instructor? It is not an engine failure or a student failing an exam. It is the fear of disappointing their expectations and not unlocking their full potential. When you do this job with passion, you invest yourself emotionally in the journey of every single student. We feel a profound sense of responsibility because our words and teachings can influence an entire career. It is an ethical burden, but also what drives us to always give our best.

And the rewards? What is the most gratifying moment of your work?
Captain Vitolo: The greatest satisfaction is, without a doubt, seeing your students succeed. There is no greater pride than when a former student contacts you, perhaps years later, to tell you they have passed selection at a major airline or achieved their first promotion to Captain. I remember every young man and woman I have trained. Seeing them achieve their dream is the realisation of my purpose as an instructor. Then there is the invaluable human element. A relationship of trust and mutual respect is created that goes beyond teaching. We become mentors, reference figures in an intense and sometimes stressful journey. Knowing that I have contributed, even in a small way, to shaping a professional and a person is a reward that has no price. Finally, there is the awareness of contributing to the future of a vital sector, which today has a growing need for qualified pilots. Training the new blood of aviation is an honour.

Can you reveal some "trade secrets" for an aspiring pilot?
Captain Vitolo: Rather than secrets, I would define them as fundamental pillars upon which to build a solid career.

1. Maximise use of Flight Simulators. Technology today offers us incredible tools. At Aviomar, we have advanced training centres, such as the one in Monterotondo, with six simulators, including three latest-generation Full Flight Simulators (FFS) (Airbus A320, Cessna Citation Mustang C510, and Cessna Citation C650). These devices are not just for learning procedures, but for developing the ability to manage stress and emergencies in a totally safe environment. An hour of well-conducted simulation, with an instructor actively guiding you, is worth its weight in gold.
2. Learn the art of Crew Resource Management (CRM). Flying an airliner is not a solitary endeavour, but teamwork. CRM is the "symphony of the flight deck": it teaches you to communicate clearly and effectively, to take shared decisions, to manage workload, and to create an environment where every crew member feels authorised to voice doubts to trap a potential error. Soft skills today are just as important as hard skills.
3. Choose your path carefully. There are Integrated and Modular pathways. For a young person starting from zero who can dedicate themselves full-time, the Integrated ATPL path, like the one we offer at Aviomar, is often the best choice. It is an intensive and structured course that guarantees linear progression and prevents skills decay. It demonstrates total dedication which airlines, including our training partner Ryanair, appreciate greatly.
4. English is not an option; it is a requirement. Aviation speaks English. From communications with Air Traffic Control to technical manuals, everything is in English. An excellent level is not only necessary to pass tests but is fundamental for operational safety.
5. Adopt a continuous learning mindset. A good pilot never feels they have "made it". Regulations evolve, technologies change, and every flight adds a piece to your experience. Curiosity and the humility to continue studying and learning throughout your career are the true hallmarks of a great professional.

One last piece of advice for those dreaming of the flight deck?
Captain Vitolo: Be determined, but also patient. The journey is long and demanding; it will require sacrifices and absolute dedication. There will be moments of frustration and difficulty, but those are exactly the moments that, once overcome, will make you stronger and more aware pilots. Study, commit yourself fully, and above all, never lose sight of the passion that drove you to start. And choose a flight school that offers you not just training, but a true support ecosystem, with experienced instructors, modern fleets, and cutting-edge infrastructure. Your future depends on the quality of your training. The career of a pilot is one of the most fascinating professions, rich with responsibility. The guidance of an experienced instructor like Captain Anthony Vitolo is fundamental to transforming a dream into a solid professional reality.

Do you have what it takes to become a commercial pilot?
Explore Aviomar Flight Academy’s pilot training courses or join our Open Days to speak directly with our instructors and discover our facilities. Your career in aviation begins with a decision—and the right time is now. Contact us!