From Cabin Crew to Cockpit: Qatar Airways Employee Transitions to A320 Pilot

DOHA- Precious Sibalo is training at 43 Air School, diligently accumulating flight hours for her goal of landing her first airline cockpit job.

Having faced teenage motherhood, the loss of family members, and a significant move, Precious earned her Integrated Airline Transport Pilot License along with qualification in Airbus A320 Multi-Crew Cooperation.

The former cabin crew member for Qatar Airways from Plumtree, Zimbabwe, now serves as an inspiration for women in aviation. She has also initiated global charity projects during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Path from Cabin Crew to Pilot

Her fascination with aviation began when Precious was eight. During a school trip to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, she observed pilots in their crisp uniforms, yet noticed a lack of female representation. “I couldn’t see any women pilots,” she recalled, questioning her teacher if girls could fly. The encouraging reply ignited her ambition to thrive in a male-dominated field.

At 17, motherhood altered her academic plans, and shortly after, she faced the loss of her mother. To support her daughter and family, Precious made the difficult decision to leave Zimbabwe for South Africa, leaving her child with trusted caregivers.

“I often wrestled with thoughts of what kind of parent leaves their child behind,” she shared. “Many women experience this, compelled to leave their kids to provide for them.”

Her early jobs included working as a waitress and part-time model before relocating to the area around Doha Hamad International Airport for better job prospects, reminding herself that “dreams require action.”

Transitioning to Cabin Crew

Precious’s first experience flying with Qatar Airways was as a passenger to Dubai, where she was impressed by the professionalism of a crew member.

Just three months later, she secured a job with the same airline as a cabin crew member. Years later, she would reconnect with that same individual, expressing how their encounter had sparked her ambitions. “Whenever I walked down the aisle, I realized I might be inspiring someone too,” she notes.

During her five years in the air, visits to the cockpit kindled her childhood aspiration. Pilots and first officers provided mentorship and encouragement, helping her to pursue her dream of flying.

When an opportunity for a promotion coincided with pilot training options, Precious decided to follow her passion for flying.

Making a Difference During Layovers

Using her layovers meaningfully, Precious has visited orphanages and schools across the globe, collecting and donating unused essentials from friends.

Additionally, she has shared skills, such as dental hygiene practices, with children to promote healthier habits.

“Charity goes beyond just giving material items; it’s also about providing your time and skills,” she emphasizes.

Pursuing Pilot Training at 43 Air School

In 2017, Precious embarked on her training journey at 43 Air School in Port Alfred, South Africa, completing the comprehensive Integrated ATPL program and the Airbus A320 Multi-Crew Cooperation course.

As reported by sources, she is currently gaining flight hours piloting a Cessna 172 while also preparing for her flight instructor rating.

In August 2020, amidst the pandemic, she initiated “Birthday with a Purpose.” Instead of gifts, she requested food and necessities. Teaming up with friends and the local district mayor, they distributed packages, including motivational books, to over 100 needy families.

Guiding Future Pilots

Precious takes time to mentor aspiring pilots through social media platforms, aiming to create sponsorship opportunities for those in need.

Her goal is to assist trainees who have lost jobs or can’t afford training costs. “My wish is for everyone to strive for improvement and never lose hope,” she declares. “It’s always darkest just before dawn.”

Ultimately, she aims to fly the Airbus A320 for Qatar Airways or another major airline, demonstrating that resilience can transform even the toughest challenges into clear skies.