Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Achmat Salim MTSHALI

Helicopter Pilot
Gqeberha

Summary

Qualified Helicopter Pilot with comprehensive background in aviation safety and regulatory compliance. Demonstrated expertise in evaluating aircraft operations and enforcing safety protocols. Proven ability to identify hazards and implement corrective actions.

Successfully executed numerous high-risk missions, demonstrating precision and reliability. Proven ability to manage complex flight schedules and ensure safety, with strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.



Overview

20
20
years of professional experience

Work History

Flight Safety Officer

SAAF
02.2023 - Current


  • Implemente new technologies to improve flight safety and efficiency.
  • Advise stakeholders on aviation safety regulations and best practices.
  • Analyze safety data to identify trends and emerging risks.
  • Encourage active participation in safety programs, reducing risk exposure.
  • Led incident investigations and implemented corrective actions.
  • Develop emergency response plans to manage critical situations.
  • Prepare safety reports to support leadership decision-making.
  • Mentor junior officers and fostered a learning culture.
  • Conduct safety training and workshops to improve safety culture.
  • Audit operations to evaluate and enhance safety measures.
  • Plan and executed inspection programs.
  • Reduce accidents through strict safety policies and risk mitigation.
  • Exercise leadership and promoted team cohesion.
  • Promote safety awareness across all squadron members.
  • Maintaine accurate aviation safety records and documentation.

BK 117 Helicopter Commander

SAAF
02.2023 - Current
  • Demonstrate strong teamwork with aircrew and aviation personnel to ensure smooth operations.
  • Perform thorough pre-flight checks and inspections to enhance flight safety.
  • Execute emergency landings safely under challenging conditions.
  • Collaborate with co-pilots during high-stress situations to mitigate risks.
  • Review charts, used navigational tools, and followed aviation regulations.
  • Plan and filed flight plans for various missions and maintained accurate flight logs.
  • Optimize routes and flight parameters for safety, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction.
  • Perform routine maintenance to extend aircraft lifespan and minimize downtime.
  • Improve standard operating procedures through process enhancements.
  • Evaluate and recommended aviation technology upgrades for better performance.
  • Ensure efficient operations through detailed planning and communication with ATC.
  • Works closely with ground crews for smooth mission coordination.
  • Support firefighting missions with precise aerial water drops.
  • Operate aircraft in extreme conditions and challenging terrains.
  • Maintained proficiency in emergency procedures, contributing to a strong safety record.
  • Conducted pre- and post-flight checks and passenger briefings.
  • Performed aircraft walk-arounds and search and rescue missions using expert navigation skills.

Oryx Helicopter Pilot

SAAF
12.2010 - 01.2023
  • Planned routes, altitudes and speeds to provide fastest, safest and smoothest flights for on-time arrivals and high levels of passenger satisfaction.
  • Planned and filed daily flight plans for training missions, sorties, and patrol flights.
  • Reviewed aeronautical charts and used navigational instruments during each flight and maintained strong knowledge of government and company regulations.
  • Delivered valuable reconnaissance data through skilled execution of aerial photography missions for various clients.
  • Planned and Executed External Deployment to other African Countries
  • Supported firefighting efforts by accurately executing aerial water drops on wildfires.
  • Collaborated effectively with ground crew personnel to ensure seamless coordination during mission execution.
  • Participated in humanitarian relief efforts by transporting essential supplies to disaster-stricken areas in a timely manner.
  • Operated aircraft at high-density altitudes, mountainous terrain and extremely cold flight conditions.
  • Assisted law enforcement agencies with aerial surveillance during high-profile operations, providing crucial situational awareness.
  • Provided reliable transportation for VIP clients, ensuring punctual arrival at destinations and delivering exceptional customer service.
  • Streamlined standard operating procedures by implementing process improvements based on best practices within the industry.
  • Operated under challenging weather conditions while maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance.
  • Conducted successful search and rescue missions, utilizing advanced navigation skills and knowledge of terrain.
  • Completed careful pre-flight checks and post-flight briefings to maintain safety standards.
  • Used instrumentation to pilot aircraft during poor visibility.
  • Filed instrument flight plans with air traffic control, enabling proper flight coordination.

Helicopter Pilot Student

SAAF
10.2009 - 12.2010
  • Gained teamwork skills through collaborative aviation projects with diverse peers.
  • Developed leadership as Pilot-in-Command during solo flights.
  • Enhanced navigation using GPS, VOR, and ADF systems on cross-country flights.
  • Worked effectively with instructors and peers in group learning settings.
  • Studied aviation laws through coursework, workshops, and seminars.
  • Pursued personal development through extra flight hours and certifications.
  • Adhered strictly to FAA safety regulations during training.
  • Built strong foundational knowledge in aviation principles through coursework and practical experience.
  • Improved radio communication with regular ATC interaction.
  • Contributed to peer learning through classroom discussions.
  • Strengthened understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft performance.
  • Gained insight into aircraft systems via manuals, records, and hands-on observation.
  • Maintained detailed flight records for continual improvement.
  • Refined instrument flying skills in simulators and actual aircraft.
  • Maintained situational awareness by monitoring weather, fuel, and instruments.
  • Mastered pre-flight procedures and emergency protocols.
  • Gained diverse flight experience across various aircraft types.
  • Adapted well to changing flight conditions and emergencies.
  • Developed sound decision-making under pressure.
  • Calculated fuel requirements based on mission data.
  • Conducted pre- and post-flight aircraft inspections.
  • Briefed passengers on flight details and conditions.
  • Used instruments for flight in low-visibility conditions.
  • Filed IFR flight plans to ensure proper coordination with ATC.

Student Pilot

SAAF
01.2007 - 08.2009
  • Basic aerodynamics – Understanding how an aircraft flies (lift, drag, thrust, and weight).
  • Aircraft systems – Learning the components and functions of the aircraft you fly.
  • Flight controls and handling – Mastering how to operate and maneuver the aircraft.
  • Pre-flight and post-flight procedures – Conducting aircraft inspections and safety checks.
  • Navigation skills – Using GPS, VOR, ADF, and charts for cross-country flying.
  • Meteorology – Interpreting weather data and understanding its impact on flight.
  • Flight planning – Calculating routes, fuel, altitude, and timing for efficient flights.
  • Radio communication – Communicating with air traffic control (ATC) using proper phraseology.
  • Regulations and airspace – Learning aviation laws, FAA rules, and types of airspace.
  • Emergency procedures – Responding to system failures, engine issues, or other in-flight emergencies.
  • Instrument flying basics – Flying using cockpit instruments in low-visibility conditions.
  • Human factors and decision-making – Managing workload, stress, and in-flight decisions.
  • Solo flight – Gaining confidence and independence as Pilot-in-Command during solo flights.
  • Cross-country flying – Planning and completing flights between different airports.
  • Flight log maintenance – Recording flight hours, maneuvers, and aircraft types.
  • Air law and operations – Understanding rights, responsibilities, and procedures of pilots.
  • Checklists usage – Consistent use of checklists to ensure safe and standardized operations.
  • Landing and takeoff techniques – Learning proper procedures for smooth and safe operations.
  • Situational awareness – Continuously monitoring surroundings, instruments, and flight status.
  • Multitasking and time management – Handling multiple responsibilities during flight.

Basic Trainee Soldier

Army
01.2005 - 06.2005
  • Maintained physical fitness levels to meet demanding operational requirements and ensure optimal performance under challenging circumstances.
  • Trained in infantry tactics, weapons and medical procedures for well-rounded field support.
  • Developed strong leadership skills through rigorous training and hands-on experience in high-pressure situations.
  • Learned to operate and maintains armored vehicles.
  • Performed as fire team member during situational training exercises and infantry dismounted battle drills.
  • Mitigated risks by conducting thorough safety assessments and implementing appropriate measures.
  • Learned to strengthen morale among fellow soldiers through active listening, empathy, and encouragement in difficult situations.
  • thought to provide professional reconnaissance and security support during varied operations.
  • Learned to utilize critical thinking skills to solve complex problems while working under pressure in dynamic environments.
  • Drove mission success by effectively utilizing intelligence data gathered from various sources for informed decision-making during operations.
  • Learned to assemble, disassemble and maintain various weapons for operational readiness.
  • Thought to promoted a culture of accountability by enforcing strict adherence to military standards and protocols.
  • Thought to enhanced morale, organizing recreational and team-building activities.
  • Thought to implement effective first-aid procedures, enhancing survival rates during operations.
  • Worked in dirty and uncomfortable conditions, sometimes in dangerous locations.
  • Trained in small arms, anti-armor and indirect fire weapons.
  • Upheld code of conduct and maintained professionalism in stressful situations.
  • Dealt with inter-company conflicts to remove obstacles to troop readiness.
  • Completed Non Commission Officer program upon receipt of corporal as part of leadership development.
  • Trained in conflict resolution among subordinates, equals and superiors.
  • Trained to promote positive collaboration among troops, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills.
  • Contributed ideas in brainstorming sessions, leading to innovative solutions for project challenges.
  • Engaged in problem-solving activities with other troops to develop critical thinking skills, enhancing team resilience.

Education

Diploma in Civil Aviation Management - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Cert in Air Transportation Management - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Cert in Mananging Aviation Policy And Regulation - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Cert in Manegement of Aviation Quality And Service - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Cert in Aviation And The Invironment - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
Johannesburg, South Africa
04.2001 -

Higher Certificate in Military Studies - Military Science

Stellenbotch University
Military Academy Saldahna
04.2001 -

South African Pilot (Fixed Wing) Course 112/08 - Aviation

Central Flying School (CFS)
Western Cape (Langebaanweg)
04.2001 -

Private Pilot Licence (Helicopter) - Aviation

StarLite Aviation
Durban, South Africa
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Sizwakele High School
EMbalenhle, South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

Hazard identification

Safety management system

Crew resource management

Incident reporting

Problem-solving

Time management

Physical fitness

Problem-solving abilities

Self motivation

Adaptability and flexibility

Critical thinking

Active listening

Computer proficiency

Safety management

Analytical thinking

Accomplishments

  • Accumulated over 1,200 flight hours across various helicopter platforms, demonstrating advanced operational proficiency.
  • Successfully executed domestic and international missions, including combat, humanitarian, and peacekeeping operations.
  • Maintained a flawless safety record throughout high-risk missions in diverse and challenging environments.
  • Contributed to multinational operations by ensuring seamless integration with allied forces during cross-border deployments.
  • Played a key role in mission planning and execution, ensuring operational success and crew safety.
  • Recognized for outstanding leadership and decision-making under pressure during time-critical missions.
  • Supported strategic objectives through successful execution of reconnaissance, medevac, and troop transport missions.

Timeline

Flight Safety Officer

SAAF
02.2023 - Current

BK 117 Helicopter Commander

SAAF
02.2023 - Current

Oryx Helicopter Pilot

SAAF
12.2010 - 01.2023

Helicopter Pilot Student

SAAF
10.2009 - 12.2010

Student Pilot

SAAF
01.2007 - 08.2009

Basic Trainee Soldier

Army
01.2005 - 06.2005

Diploma in Civil Aviation Management - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
04.2001 -

Cert in Air Transportation Management - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
04.2001 -

Cert in Mananging Aviation Policy And Regulation - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
04.2001 -

Cert in Manegement of Aviation Quality And Service - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
04.2001 -

Cert in Aviation And The Invironment - Aviation Management

Aviation Training Academy
04.2001 -

Higher Certificate in Military Studies - Military Science

Stellenbotch University
04.2001 -

South African Pilot (Fixed Wing) Course 112/08 - Aviation

Central Flying School (CFS)
04.2001 -

Private Pilot Licence (Helicopter) - Aviation

StarLite Aviation
04.2001 -

High School Diploma -

Sizwakele High School
04.2001 -

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Achmat Salim MTSHALIHelicopter Pilot