Chief in Charge

A name can shape a first impression. For Chief Thomas, the Flight Operations Manager at FlyNamibia and Westair Aviation, his name often sparks intrigue. But as he quickly clarifies in meetings, “Chief” is just a name—not a title. That distinction, however, doesn’t diminish the leadership role he has steadily carved out in Namibia’s aviation industry. From humble beginnings to holding one of the most crucial positions in airline operations, Chief’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Born and raised in Swakopmund, Chief’s dream of becoming a pilot was not sparked by childhood fantasies of soaring through the skies but rather by glimpses of aviation on television and in movies. It was a dream that, at first, seemed almost impossible. But through perseverance, hard work, and a fortunate sponsorship from the Namibian government, he found himself training as a pilot in the United States. A little over a year later, he returned home—qualified but facing the daunting challenge of finding an opportunity to enter the industry.

His first break came at Westair Aviation, though not in the cockpit. Instead, he found himself behind a desk, working in flight following, dispatch, and scheduling. His ability to adapt and excel in various roles made him indispensable. He honed his skills in operational logistics and compliance, earning him progressive responsibilities, including a pivotal role as Chief Pilot Assistant. It was there that he gained firsthand experience in compliance, documentation, and regulatory procedures – experience that would later prove invaluable.