5 minutes with our Resident Pilot Rui Vaz Ramos

Thursday, March 26, 2020

What’s your name and where are you from?

My name is Rui and I’m from Lisbon, Portugal.

When did you start working for the Swallows?

In January 2019 I started my skydive pilot training in Jerez.

When did you come to Skydive Algarve and what’s your position here?

I became a resident pilot for Skydive Algarve in September 2019.

How and when did you become a pilot?

I started my initial training to become a pilot in 2008.

Explain a bit about your progression to become a skydive pilot and the planes you now fly?

I became a skydive pilot when I had more or less 500 flight hours. I started to fly the PAC750 XL. Nowadays I fly the Dornier and I just got the rating for the Super Caravan.

What’s a typical day like at SA for you?

A typical day is a busy day.

How many flight hours do you have?

I currently have over 1500 flight hours.

What’s one of your most memorable moments as a skydive pilot?

The most memorable moment for me was my first Formation flight, at Skydive Hibaldstow. We beat the British record with a 21 way head up.

What do you like about being a pilot at Skydive Algarve?

I love living in the Algarve, it’s an amazing place to be.

What do you do outside of work, in your free time?

If there are waves you’ll find me at the beach, surfing. When I’m not surfing, I’m either home or out and about having fun with my wife and our 2 sons.

What makes SA such a special dropzone for tandems and students?

I think it’s a special dropzone because of it’s location. You’re near Portimão, near the beach. Most dropzones are in the middle of nowhere. At Skydive Algarve that’s not the case.

What’s something you’re proud of in your career?

I’m proud of my landings!