Al’s Unforgettable Career in the Skies and the Story of In-Flight Dining
For over four decades, Allister (Al) has been living his dream in the sky, from flying fighter jets to piloting the iconic Boeing 747-400 with British Airways. But his journey to becoming one of the most experienced pilots in the industry wasn’t just about taking to the skies; it was about passion, determination, and a love for the moments that aviation can offer.
When Al was just 12 years old, he flew on a Boeing 720 from Luton to Munich. “Let’s just say the aircraft was reaching the end of its life, but to me, it was a rocket ship,” he explains. He had never been on a foreign holiday before, so this was his first experience flying, and from this moment, Al caught the flying bug. He joined the Air Training Corps, earned a flying scholarship, and obtained his Private Pilot’s Licence at just 17.
From there, his journey took a remarkable turn. Al joined the RAF, where he had the privilege of flying the F4 Phantom at 21. “Flying the F4 was something I’d always dreamed about,” he says, grinning. “I had a poster of it on my wall as a kid, so getting to fly it felt surreal.” After 10 years of service, he followed his lifelong dream of becoming an airline pilot, joining Air 2000 and later British Airways in 1997. It was with the airline that Al’s career truly took flight, especially when he first piloted the iconic Boeing 747-400.
Picking just one highlight from his long career is tough. “There’s just so much to look back on,” he says. His first solo in a Cessna 152, his first solo in a jet, and earning his RAF wings are all moments that still stand out. “I remember getting those wings and thinking about all the legendary pilots who’d worn them before me. It was a real honour.”
But some moments stick with him a little more. One that always comes to mind is flying the 747 into Hong Kong’s Kai Tak airport, known for its tricky chequerboard approach. “That was insane,” he reminisces. “The adrenaline was through the roof. I was actually shaking when we taxied to the terminal.”
Regarding his book Flavour of Flight, Al was fortunate to be asked if he could become more involved with the Speedbird Heritage Centre. He loves aviation history, so he was more than happy to do so. Allister felt there was a journey he could tell: “The history of British Airways food and drink is remarkable, and to bring this to life was a privilege.” Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge created an amazing menu for the British Airways centenary, and he allowed Allister to include a few dishes in the book! Tomato burrata, Café de Paris butter, and Blueberry Nectarine Charlotte are all so simple to make but also delicious to eat. Al’s favourite is the Roasted Cauliflower risotto: “straightforward and filling.”
When Al reflects on the evolution of in-flight dining, the changes are nothing short of remarkable. “Food has always been a key part of aviation, but as aircraft reached new heights, so did the demand for better meals,” he says. From the early days of frozen meals (or “frood” as it was known) to the challenges of serving food on supersonic flights aboard Concorde, the airline industry has always strived to provide the best possible in-flight dining experience. Working with top chefs and understanding the science behind how taste changes at altitude has been key to perfecting these meals. “Even something as simple as frozen meals in the 1950s had to overcome major challenges,” he explains. “The science of how the palate works at altitude has transformed how we approach food on flights.”
Al’s best advice for aspiring pilots is to be determined. “Follow the dream and don’t let anyone or anything set you back,” he continues. “I’d strongly recommend checking out the Speedbird Pilot Academy, a cadet programme that levels the playing field by lifting the high-cost barrier for self-funded training, making becoming a pilot a realistic career choice for all.” He concludes with, “Just keep delving into your big bucket of determination, and anything is possible.”
Favourite aircraft to fly and why? “The Boeing 747-400. Iconic and a dream to fly (although the F4 was pretty cool too). I love my current aircraft, the Boeing 777, too. Again, a super aircraft to operate.”
What’s your go-to comfort meal after a long day? “I love a roast dinner, and I am a sucker for any sweet puddings. My crispy roast potato recipe is in the book.”
Most unusual or surprising thing you’ve eaten during your travels? “There have been many across the world, including some exotic and very tasty meals.”
Morning flight or red-eye? “I love every trip, and flying is still such a privilege. I am fortunate to be good first thing in the morning and fine overnight. So lucky.”
Describe your perfect day off in one sentence. “Anytime spent with my family is a total treat to me, wherever we are in the world.”
You can purchase Flavour of Flight by Al Bridger here.
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