Author: Amer

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.