“When I completed my pilot training, I knew that the path to an airline had only just begun. Like many newly graduated pilots, I had the motivation and drive to keep moving forward, but I was also aware that the opportunities that arise at the start of a career can make a significant difference in the future.
That’s why being selected as the Gold Carlos Salas Scholarship winner was news I received with great excitement and gratitude. More than just support to continue my training, it represented a vote of confidence in my potential as a pilot and an outstanding opportunity to keep growing professionally.
Thanks to this scholarship, I was able to complete my ATR 72-500 Type Rating at Global Training Aviation—an experience that exceeded all my expectations. From day one, I found a serious, demanding, and highly professional training environment, where every phase of the course was designed to help us develop not only technical knowledge, but also the skills required to operate in an airline environment.
What stood out to me the most was the human quality of the people at GTA. Behind the simulators, classrooms, and procedures, there is a team truly committed to each student’s learning and development. The instructors constantly shared their operational experience and encouraged us to reflect, analyse, and fully understand each situation beyond simply executing procedures.
During the course, I learned that a Type Rating is not just about knowing an aircraft. It also involves developing a way of thinking, working, and making decisions in line with real operational demands. This approach to training was one of the aspects I found most valuable.
The simulator sessions were especially enriching. Each exercise represented a new challenge and a new opportunity to improve. Thanks to the instructors’ guidance and the learning environment created throughout the course, every mistake became a tool for progress.
I also greatly value GTA’s commitment to the development of new pilots. Initiatives such as the Carlos Salas Scholarships show a genuine dedication to supporting those taking their first steps in the profession and help reduce some of the barriers many pilots face at the beginning of their careers.
Looking back today, I am convinced that this opportunity had a very significant impact on my professional development. The training I received, the confidence I gained, and the experience I acquired during the Type Rating provided me with a solid foundation to face future challenges.
Today, I am fortunate to be flying as a First Officer at Air Nostrum—an exciting stage in my career that I approach with great enthusiasm and responsibility. Looking back, I can only feel grateful to all the people and institutions that made this opportunity possible.
My thanks go to GTA, SEPLA, and COPAC for their continued commitment to supporting new generations of pilots and for helping many of us turn our vocation into a profession.“
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Carlos Barja Gallés was the Gold Scholarship winner of the 3rd Edition of the Carlos Salas Scholarships, an initiative promoted by SEPLA, COPAC, and Global Training Aviation to support the professional development of new pilots. As part of this program, he completed his ATR 72-500 Type Rating at GTA and currently works as a First Officer at Air Nostrum.
