CHRIS BONE

Chris Bone graduated from Bristow Academy in 2000. He now flies for Suncoast Helicopters in Queensland, Australia.

"I graduated from Bristow Academy in 2000 and after working as an instructor in the US I found my way down here to Australia. I presently fly an R44 and occasionally R22's for Suncoast Helicopters on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland. Most of our work is tourist charter, flying up and down the coast. We also do occasional photo and film flights and airport transfers to Brisbane. The flying is challenging (but fun because of this) as the airspace is very busy round here, with 2 major airports nearby and several flying schools. What makes it easier though is the very professional controllers who do a good job, but in the typical laid back Aussie way, being accommodating to most strange requests!

I love the flying here as the scenery is so fantastic, with beaches and mountains nearby. The sea is so clear we often see dolphins, whales and manta rays from the helicopter, we also sometimes have to fly around the kangaroos that live at the end of the runway, as they don't seem at all bothered by us. The lifestyle is great, with plenty to occupy me in my downtime, including the chance to brush up on the surfing I started learning when at Bristow Academy in California! LIFE'S A BEACH!."