Schubach Aviation
Chief Pilot Ralph Wyman
Ralph Wyman has served Schubach Aviation clients for more than 14 years, accruing more than 11,000 flight hours. As Chief Pilot, since early 2019, he has worked closely with the flight safety department and ensures that our team of pilots uphold Schubach Aviation’s founding values of exceptional client experience and safety.
We asked Ralph a few questions regarding the Chief Pilot role and some of his responsibilities and objectives at Schubach Aviation.
GB: What does a ‘day in the life’ of a Chief Pilot look like?
Since a Chief Pilot also flies, my day can be spent either in-flight, on the road or in the office. Chief Pilot duties are ever-present, so I can get a call at any time from a pilot or the company regarding a situation that needs to be resolved. Office work usually consists of answering emails, looking through resumes for either current or future hiring needs, checking pilot records for upcoming required training, scheduling pilot training, resolving any pilot issues and making sure all pilot and aircraft manuals are up to date.
GB: Leading a team of pilots at Schubach Aviation, how do you foster a safety-first company culture?
We have an “open door policy,” so if there ever is a concern, our pilots know they can contact management at any time. We also have a very strong flight safety department, devoted to all things related to safety. We are constantly identifying ways we can raise the bar on safety by logging issues that might occur and watching for trends.
GB: What qualities do you look for in a pilot?
Any pilots we interview are already well-qualified, so after skill assessment, it comes down to finding the right personality fit for our company and its values.
GB: What sets Schubach Aviation (and its pilots) apart?
Since the company’s inception, our priority focus has been the client experience and safety. We pride ourselves on our professionalism and great attention to detail. The client is truly the reason we are here.
GB: What do you love most about your job?
Being part of a team that has the same common goal. The ability to meet people and exceed their expectations. And having the opportunity to see parts of the world, even our own country, that I would never have thought of traveling to.
GB: What is your favorite aircraft to fly and why?
The Gulfstream is by far my favorite aircraft. It’s the pinnacle of private/corporate jet aircraft – and for good reason. It can travel to places that most private aircraft can’t, with comfort and style. The Bombardier Challenger 350 also stands out for its luxury finishes and large cabin size.
GB: How are pilots taking adhering to guidelines around Covid-19?
Our pilots strictly adhere to all guidelines set by the CDC as well as best practices specific to our industry including guidelines from aircraft manufacturers on how to best sterilize aircraft. We view protecting the health of our passengers and crew as another safety measure and safety is always our primary focus.
