AV8 Questions: Kevin Redden

Interview with Kevin Redden, AV8 Flight Instructor

When did you become interested in aviation? I became interested in aviation at a very early age. My parents would take my brothers and I to the Airport Park in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands where I would stand at the top of the slide and watch airplanes takeoff and land. The memories and experiences were surreal and have kept me glued on aviation throughout my life.

Are your family and friends interested in flying? I am the first pilot in my family but I was fortunate to have supportive parents who believed in my aspirations and help me to see them through.

How did your career in aviation begin? My aviation career began during my first internship at Cayman Airways where I got up close and personal with the airline industry and how everything functioned beyond the flight. It was eye opening and provided a wealth of information that has inspired me to grow and pursue other career paths in aviation.

Has your career evolution followed an expected path? My path has not followed my expected path but it has allowed me to become a flight instructor and that has been a phenomenal experience and has allowed me to help others achieve their aviation goals and dreams.

Do you have a favorite aspect of your work? I would have to say that my favorite part of being a flight instructor at AV8 is helping my students grow and watching them succeed at their aviation goals. Aviation is an industry built on passion, and being able to get into an airplane and share a passion with a fellow aviator is a special thing!

Is there a time in aviation history, or aircraft that you find most fascinating? My favorite aircraft has to be the Boeing 737-200. It was the first airplane I was ever on and it holds a special place in my heart.

When is/was your favorite industry-related event, such as annual camp or fly-in? Growing up in the Cayman Islands there were not many opportunities to get involved with aviation as a kid, but I was fortunate to attend the Cayman Islands Airshow where I was able to walk on the airside ramp and interact with pilots and see their aircraft up close. It was very inspiring and solidified my love for aviation.

What is the future of flight for you? The future of flight for me is uncertain but I would ultimately like to move on to the airlines as it has always been my dream to fly passengers. I have thoroughly enjoyed being a flight instructor very much so I would like to continue providing instruction whenever possible!

AV8 Questions: Interviews with Aviators