High-flying teen - Clarendon youngster earns pilot licence

Michiel Williams still remembers his first time on an airplane. He said the experience, when he was nine-years-old, ignited his passion to become a pilot.

"My interest was piqued when the aircraft climbed smoothly into the sky, and seeing the view from above was amazing. The ability of the pilot to get us off the ground into the sky impressed my young mind and I just wanted to learn how it was done," he said.

A decade later, the 19-year-old is a commercial pilot, having been certified by 2Fly Airborne, a flight academy in Florida. His goal is to further his studies to become an airline pilot.

The Denbigh High School alumnus told THE STAR that though he was elated at his acceptance into 2Fly Airborne, trepidation lingered as his parents pondered a way to cover the hefty US$54,000 (approximately J$7.8-million) tuition.

Kind donations

He shared that his parents had to halt construction work on their house to save funds. He also lauded other relatives and church family for their kind donations towards his tertiary fees.

"It wasn't easy. There were times I felt that payment deadlines would not be met, but thanks be to God [the fees] were paid in due time, " said the Toll Gate native.

According to Williams, flight school was no easy feat, stating that the concept was a lot to grasp. He added that being away from his home and adjusting to a new environment caused additional stress, but he remained relentless in pursuit of his goals.

He told THE STAR that there were academic hurdles that he had to overcome, adding, "On my final exam, I failed when trying to initiate a soft landing on a windy day, and I had to retake the exam for my private pilot licence. I must admit, I failed some (courses) but I was resilient, and with the help of God, I passed them in the second sitting."

"At times I felt overwhelmed, but I called on people who would support me and give me positive reassurance. I faced a lot of challenges, and there were a lot of obstacles," said Williams, who recently earned his certification.

"If you have a dream or a goal you wish to accomplish, work towards it with all you have. It's not always going to be easy, but it can be done. Seize the opportunity and work towards your goal," said the young pilot.

First on Williams' bucket list is flying to Jamaica, as his flight hours have only so far been recorded in the United States of America.

"Returning to the country where I was first inspired to become a pilot will be a joy. It would also be a momentous occasion for the country, as I would be one of few Jamaicans who would have been certified abroad," he beamed.