Author: Amer

Whether you’re an engineer, training specialist, or maintenance planner, each and every career path in aviation starts somewhere. The chances are high that the first role is an internship relevant to your chosen field. As it can be a little tricky to navigate the job-hunting landscape when you’re just starting off, Magnetic Line’s interns share their stories on career pursuits as young professionals.

Meet Bart Eimers, an Amsterdam-based mechanic, former intern:

Could you introduce yourself and your background?

Bart: I’m Bart, and I’m 21 years old. I live in Hoofddorp. For the last four years, I have been studying to become an aircraft technician. In my free time, I love sailing or working on cars with my friends. I started sailing on classic Dutch sailing ships from a very young age. During the last few years, I have also competed in some competitions. We even won the Dutch championship! If we were not competing, we were sailing for leisure, it’s always nice to have a relaxing weekend on the water. Hearing the water hit the hull is such an amazing and peaceful sound—a great way to un-destress after a long week at work.     

How did you come to join Magnetic Line?

Bart: I joined Magnetic Line as an intern because I really wanted to get work experience in line maintenance. And I have never had any regrets about joining Magnetic. Before I joined Magnetic, the only plane I had seen up close was the 737-200 at school. But getting to see the beautiful B777 and A380 up close was a real eye-opener. 

From the first day, I have been learning new things. I was quite surprised about how different every day was. One day, all the planes were in tip-top condition. The next day, you crawl into an engine to ensure everything is safe for flight. The following day, you are seeing a plane being jacked up to inspect the nose gear. No day is ever the same. I feel very fortunate to be able to work around the most amazing machines on the planet with the most amazing team.

As for the future,  I plan to keep learning new things and meet more amazing people at Magnetic Line, eventually having enough knowledge to become an engineer myself.

Meet Elias Benewitz, a working student based in Berlin:

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

Elias: I live right outside the city of Berlin, which I immensely enjoy. It’s much less busy, and the city is right around the corner. I always knew I wanted to get into aviation, so after high school, I joined an aviation engineering program at a technical university, where I am about to graduate. During after-work hours, I like traveling and working out in the gym. Still, the most significant part of my life outside of university and work is being a volunteer firefighter in my city. It’s interesting work, and you’re helping people. 

What was your start like with Magnetic Line, and where are you headed career-wise?

Elias: For my university degree, I had to do a mandatory internship for three months. As I previously had the opportunity to learn more about aircraft maintenance a few years back, I knew that’s where I wanted to end up again. Magnetic Line, then Direct Maintenance, was one of the biggest maintenance providers here at Berlin Airport. So, I sent my application and, luckily, was accepted to start in September 2022. I had a warm welcome from the entire team and quickly began to enjoy working on the aircraft. 

As my internship was about to end, I talked with the Station Manager, who, just like me, was interested in extending my work for the company. Thus, I continued working here as a working student while finishing my degree. In terms of the future, I hope to finish my studies by the fall of this year and have no intention of leaving the company afterward. Together with my station manager, I am planning my journey to become a licensed aircraft engineer. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and hopefully obtaining a B1 license in the future. 

What have been the most exciting things you’ve witnessed or learned during your internship?

Elias: When I started out here, I always looked forward to learning more about all the different aircraft types the Berlin station serves since I was closer to them than I had ever been before. Handling AOGs was especially interesting because you get to work on systems you usually don’t. 

Over my nearly 2 years with the company, I’ve had the privilege of participating in interstation relief trips to other stations in the network. These experiences, beyond the excitement of exploring new places, have been invaluable in broadening my perspective and understanding of our company’s operations. 

Meet Solomon Mwakio, an intern in Kenya

How did your career in aviation start? 

Solomon: I’m Solomon Mwakio, a resident of Embakasi Nairobi, Kenya; studied for a diploma in aeronautical engineering airframes and engines option at the East African School of Aviation. I graduated in December 2023 and started pursuing my internship in April 2024.

As far as I can remember, I have been passionate about aviation. Planes have captivated me since childhood. I have consistently admired and always wished to work on them, so immediately after finishing high school, I didn’t need to think twice about doing aeronautical engineering. In my spare time, I play football, tennis, and gaming simulations based on aviation.

As for Magnetic Group, at first, I didn’t know about it, but a friend of mine working at the airport suggested the idea of joining the company. So, a quick research about the company via the internet allowed me to know more about the company. I applied and, luckily, was chosen for the internship program in the Nairobi base.

What’s your favorite part about the internship?

Solomon: The internship program has definitely been a blessing for me; working on the B777, “my favorite aircraft,” and B747, “Queen of the skies,” always puts a smile on my face. Also, having a chance to work with the very supportive staff who are willing to help in various situations makes my learning process very exciting. I have learned a lot from the various types of aircraft we handle; this really makes me happy and further fuels my enthusiasm for aviation.

Solving day-to-day challenges with the help of staff while working on the aircraft gives you a satisfying feeling. I always look forward to solving the next challenge, further making the learning process exciting.

Looking at the future, progression to be one of the best aircraft engineers is all I am aiming for, and working with a company that is so supportive will allow gratification of not only personal goals but the esteemed success of the company to a greater degree.

Let’s get to know the remarkable personalities who are the face of Magnetic Line. We’re thrilled to introduce Jurson Petronielia from Magnetic Line Amsterdam station. Jurson has taken many steps in the company – from starting as an intern, growing to an engineer role, and recently starting as the Station Maintenance Manager.

From wanting to become a pilot since his youth in the Caribbean, to falling in love with engineering and determination to join the company – let’s get to know Jurson.

Let’s start from the beginning – how did you get into aviation?

I’m from Curaçao, an island in the Caribbean. With each vacation and family visit to the neighboring islands, we had to take a flight. I was fascinated by aircraft – how is it possible for such a big heavy object to fly? So, from early on, I dreamt of becoming a Pilot.

When I was 16, I went to a career fair for students and shared my desire to become a pilot. There, I was introduced to the possibility of getting an education in Aviation engineering school in Amsterdam. The terms of the program were great, so I was sold on the idea immediately. The most difficult part was convincing my parents to let a 16-year-old move to the Netherlands alone. At first, they said no, but I slowly convinced them that this was my dream – they finally approved.

Then, finally attending this aviation engineering school in the Netherlands, I fell in love with Engineering. My aviation dream slowly started to change from being a pilot to becoming a licensed Aircraft Engineer.

How did you start working at Magnetic Line?

Quite a funny story – I first applied for an internship at Magnetic Line (formerly Direct Maintenance) in February 2011. The interview went well, and I was granted the internship. Then I was asked for a copy of my driver’s license – which I did not have – but turned out to be mandatory to do the internship. Thus, I could not continue.

I was truly disappointed, so, guess what I did? I started driving lessons immediately. When I finally got my license, I called Direct Maintenance back. The former manager was so impressed by my determination and granted me the internship even after all the positions were filled.

Thus, my path in Direct Maintenance/Magnetic Line started in 2011. Since the beginning of 2024, I’ve been tackling a new role, being the Station Maintenance Manager in AMS. It’s been great to grow with the company. The biggest impact the journey has had on me is knowing that sometimes things will not go exactly as planned, but the final result will be the same.

What are the main tasks in your line of work?

With my new role in the company, I’m now in the learning & discovering phase. As Station Maintenance Manager I’m responsible for overseeing all aspects of aircraft maintenance at AMS station – ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency while managing a team of Engineers and Mechanics. One of my goals is to implement solutions to improve maintenance processes and enhance operational efficiency without compromising safety or quality.

The biggest challenge in this line of work is of course the turnaround time between the aircraft landing and taking off again. Line maintenance work is carried out on a tight schedule, so you must be very sharp and concise throughout the whole process.

What does the daily work routine in AMS station look like?

Here’s a line maintenance check overview from the Engineer’s perspective. The day starts with an early alarm clock. Once in the office, the status report of the arriving aircraft is checked. By this, one can start preparing for possible troubleshooting. Once the aircraft is on final approach, you grab a headset and head out to the gate to meet it.

At the gate, an FOD inspection is performed, and when the aircraft arrives, you greet the crew and get the status report. Then the Pre-flight or Transit checks with a walk-around inspection are done. Once the external status is checked, you enter the aircraft to meet the crew and proceed with the internal status check of the aircraft.

After completing a thorough inspection, the outgoing flight crew is briefed about the status of the aircraft. After refueling, the Aircraft Technical Log is filled and you wait for the Captain to accept and take over the aircraft. Once accepted, and the Aircraft Technical Log signed, you head downstairs to complete the final checks.

When the aircraft is ready to depart, pushback is performed. One of the most enjoyable moments of the day is the moment after the aircraft pushback – seeing the aircraft slowly start to taxi on time or even ahead of schedule. At rewarding moments like this, the unpleasant early alarm clock is completely forgotten.

Besides your work, what are your hobbies?

I enjoy many kinds of sports. I think I’m quite an athletic person – I play baseball and golf but have played many different sports in my life. When the weather doesn’t allow me to do sport outside, you will find me in the cinema or you can catch me watching the best football club in the world – Real Madrid.

As a final question, what might be something surprising about you that many people do not know?

This is a difficult one. I think most people don’t know that I like to cook and that I like to listen to Latin music, like Salsa Bachata. And when the rhythm hits me, I might get on the dance floor, too.  And by now I think most people know I like Carnival too.

Meet Steven, the Director of Operations at Magnetic Line. Constantly on the move between Magnetic Line stations, Steven can be described as a real people person. Steven’s role isn’t just about managing the stations’ operations; it’s about fostering relationships and building trust among his diverse teams, scattered across the globe.

What brought him to aviation, what does he enjoy most about his work and what are some surprising facts about him? It’s a pleasure to bring Steven into the spotlight in this article!

Let’s start from the beginning – how did you get into aviation?

Aviation and I crossed paths quite early on. Having been interested in aviation since my youth, I joined the Air Traning Corps when I was a thirteen-year-old boy, in North Wales. It’s like the Boy Scouts but with a focus on aviation. Later, when I was seventeen, I joined the Royal Air Force as an aircraft electrical technician. Aviation pulls you in, I’ve been in the industry since then.

How did you come to join Magnetic Line?

This is my second time around with Magnetic Line. During my first term with the company, from August 2019 to January 2022, I supported the management team during the pandemic as well as setting up the UPS operation in CGN and the opening of various stations in Germany.

I rejoined Magnetic Line in October 2023, this time in the position of Director of Operations.  

Tell the readers about your role in the company – what are the most rewarding aspects of the role?

In my position as Director of Operations, I am responsible for the day-to-day management of the Operations department. This is not something I do on my own, I have a great team of colleagues who support me. We operate 14 line stations in East Africa and Europe, with the stations being located quite far from each other. I’ve been fortunate to visit almost half of the stations over the last 5 months. I’m looking forward to visiting the other stations soon. Luckily, I enjoy traveling.

The most rewarding aspect of this role is the interaction with our colleagues at the various stations throughout the network, helping to build a stable future for everyone. I enjoy working and communicating with my team members, whether it’s with an Engineer I have known for 25 years, or with a mechanic I’ve just met. Getting to know each other is the best way to build trust. And trust is the basis for working together.

Given the dynamic nature of the aviation sector, what trends or developments do you anticipate in the coming 5 to 10 years?

A very interesting question. As mentioned, the aviation sector is very dynamic, we are always evaluating the market and amending our strategy accordingly. I think it is fair to say that the current global shortage of qualified engineers is a trend that will continue to affect us for the foreseeable future.

The replacement of older aircraft with newer, more efficient aircraft types, such as the A350 & Boeing 787 will continue, although some operators will still operate the older aircraft such as the Boeing 747, 767 & 757. The lack of new aircraft on the market is also delaying this process.

We will continue to train our staff on new aircraft types, and we will continue supporting the older aircraft types. As a maintenance provider, we must adapt to meet each airline’s needs.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in aviation?

The aviation industry is a fantastic place to work in, but it is also addictive. Once you have experienced working in aviation, it’s difficult to go back to a “normal” job. I cannot imagine doing anything else.

There are several ways of describing the aviation industry: exciting, growing, passion-driven… Everyone has their own way of explaining why they enjoy working in this industry, and what is special to them. Anyone joining the industry should look forward to finding out what makes it special for them. One thing is certain – accept the fact that you will have a lifetime of learning ahead of you and be willing to adapt to change.

What are your top destinations to travel to?

Florida and Palma de Mallorca. Sorry to say it’s not for the food, culture, or wonderful buildings, but it’s rather because I very much enjoy playing golf at these places. Although, red wine is also a good reason behind visiting Palma de Mallorca.

As a final question, what is something surprising about you that many people do not know?

Originally from Great Britain, I’ve been living in Germany for 40 years. Also, I truly enjoy traveling in my “cabin” – I have a pick-up truck with a cabin on the flatbed behind it. For me, it’s a way of traveling to places that are more remote and not full of tourists.

We invite you to meet Amos Michael, a mechanical engineer at Magnetic Line, based in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Amos shares his insights about the aviation journey and his recent experience, training in Tallinn, Estonia – which also turned into his top destination.

Let’s start from the beginning – how did you get into aviation?

I think my path was clear from the start – since childhood, I have been fascinated by planes! Every time when we had state officials visit, we as kids in our community were allowed to get close to the plane and greet the officials coming to the region. It always felt like a celebration. Also, as in the local airport there were not that many big planes landing, seeing jet engines up close was mesmerizing. 

And so as far as I remember, I admired airplanes and wanted to work on them one day.

And how did you start working at Magnetic Line?

Just after completing my aeronautical studies at the college in 2017, I started working as an apprentice at the Magnetic Line station based in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. And I’ve been with the company ever since.

What are the main tasks in your line of work?

If I have to sum up my work, I would say that I, as an aircraft line maintenance mechanic working alongside the supervisor on duty, have to ensure that the aircraft is always fit and safe – serviceable – to make the next flight. 

That moment when everything is ready and the aircraft is about to be pushed back towards the taxi-way – as well as when it heads to the runway for a takeoff – are my favorite as you know you were part of its journey.

How would you describe your recent training experience at Magnetic MRO in Tallinn, Estonia?

It was on-the-job training for the Airbus A320 CEO – a three-month-long program at Magnetic MRO hangar in Tallinn. It was an outstanding experience from start to finish. From being greeted by amiable and experienced staff to having the opportunity to discuss the company’s plans with top management, the time I’ve spent in Tallinn exceeded my expectations! 

From now on, I even rank Tallinn as one of the top destinations to travel to. Primarily because now I associate it with vast new experiences working on planes inside-out – keep on gaining new skills are very important for aircraft mechanics and I value it a lot. Also, people were very friendly – and that makes up for the great destination to experience.

And besides your work, what are your hobbies?

Besides my passion for airplanes, I enjoy music and singing quite a bit. Also, I like staying active and enjoy doing some sports. Since my childhood, I was into athletics, and this fascination with this sport continues to this day just as my passion for aviation. 

2024 has started with a significant new partnership between Magnetic Line and Singapore Airlines in Frankfurt. 

Magnetic Line is proud to announce that as of January 2024, the cooperation between Magnetic Line and Singapore Airlines in Frankfurt Airport will start. Singapore Airlines is a name synonymous with excellence in aviation. They operate multiple flights per day to Frankfurt, using a fleet that includes the A350, A380, and B777 Aircraft.  

“This cooperation agreement is a milestone that highlights our commitment and the trust our partners place in us. We have always thrived on building strong relationships and delivering exceptional service, and our recent agreement with Singapore Airlines reflects just that,” commented Mandeep Rana, Magnetic Line Head of Sales. 

In an industry often considered masculine, we invite you to embark on a journey with us as we uncover the story of Eddah Waweru, a Lead Engineer at Magnetic Line, based in Mombasa, Kenya. Join us in discovering the roots of her passion for aviation and exploring the unique qualities that helped her thrive in the industry.

How did your aviation career start?

My aviation career was sparked by curiosity and started way back when I was still young at my primary school level. I had so many questions concerning the planes that needed answers to satisfy my curiosity, hence aviation had to be the path for me.

I completed my primary and secondary school level and joined aviation school. There I enrolled in an aeronautical engineering (Airframes and Engines) course and my aviation career commenced.

What was your experience prior to joining Magnetic Line, a member of Magnetic Group?

I graduated from aviation school in 2013. Finding a company where you can gain experience is a challenge by itself, especially as a female in a rather masculine industry. It wasn’t that smooth, but I appreciate the challenges that came along the path, they made me stronger.

After aviation school, I was opportune to work as an intern at Kenya Airways base hangar and left at the end of my attachment period. After that I joined Fly 540 and MAF base maintenance at Wilson airport as an attaché.

How did you come to join Magnetic Line?

Later in 2015, I thought it was time for a change. Why not try applying for internships at various companies in JKIA to gain line maintenance experience since I have been doing base maintenance.

Lucky me, Magnetic Line offered me an opportunity as an intern. Due to the local authority regulations, you are allowed to work as an intern for a period of six months unless the company chooses to extend your pass. Fortunately for me, Magnetic Line extended my pass for a few additional months after which I left the company to further my career by doing the EASA Part 66 B1 modules.

However, I kept in contact with the Magnetic Line family as they contributed greatly to who I am today. The company had an opening, and I was lucky to be invited back this time around as an aircraft mechanic in Mombasa station.

What are the main challenges in your line of work?

Time. When it comes to line maintenance, time is of the essence. All maintenance procedures should be over and done within the aircraft ground time. A delay due to maintenance means a delay in flight departure which at times causes a ripple effect on aircraft operations. 

Also, weather. It’s an external factor that we have no control over. We operate and perform tasks on the apron where the aircraft is parked, meaning you work out in the open. You need to be extremely careful while working in harsh environments to avoid hazards to both yourself and the aircraft.

Besides work, what are your hobbies?

Dancing, travelling, shopping, meditation, volunteering, swimming, taking walks and working out to maintain a healthy lifestyle (health is wealth). I am also a Formula 1 fan.

What are your top destinations to travel to?

I can never get enough of Dubai, a very popular tourist destination with so many places to visit and big shopping malls. Las Vegas, a very active city that knows no night or day. Take me to Zanzibar – clean white sandy beaches and good people. Also Madrid, a beautiful city with historic monuments and kempt parks.

What impact has work at Magnetic Line had on you?

Magnetic Line has made me who I am today, and I am blessed to be part of a family that helps aviation companies help the world. The company has provided an environment that allows me to perform my duties as a Lead engineer and exercise the qualification privileges that come with the certification authorization efficiently and effectively. It has been a journey but the beginning of the best that is yet to come.

Amsterdam, Netherlands – Magnetic Line, a distinguished member of the esteemed Magnetic Group, is thrilled to announce its strategic partnership with Xiamen Airlines, marking a significant milestone in its mission to deliver top-tier aviation solutions. 

Over the past year, Magnetic Line has experienced an impressive surge in its Chinese customer base. The company has been at the forefront, providing exceptional technical support to leading airlines in China, including industry giants such as China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, HNA Group Airlines, SF Express, among others. Magnetic Line’s commitment to delivering high-quality maintenance services has garnered unanimous praise from prominent Chinese airlines operating at international airports, including Frankfurt, Berlin, Dublin, Nairobi, and more. 

“In this exciting partnership with Xiamen Airlines, Magnetic Line is poised to expand its footprint and provide innovative aviation solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry,” remarked Mandeep Rana, Head of Sales at Magnetic Line. “We are thrilled to embark on this journey together and look forward to delivering the highest standards of quality and reliability.” 

Magnetic Line’s outstanding reputation within the Chinese aviation sector has played a pivotal role in attracting Xiamen Airlines, a vital strategic partner, to collaborate at the Amsterdam station located in Schiphol Airport. 

Michael Zhong, Xiamen Airlines’ Technical Manager in Amsterdam, stated, “Xiamen Airlines appreciates the milestone-marking partnership built up with Magnetic Line at AMS, and we look forward to seeing Magnetic Line grow with more Chinese operators in the future.” 

In addition to the successful launch of the Amsterdam line maintenance partnership, Magnetic Line is excited to announce that Xiamen Airlines has also signed letters of intent for collaboration at several other key airports across Europe. This move underlines the shared vision of both organizations to expand their technical cooperation network and deepen their strategic partnerships in the near future.