Charter pilot reaching new heights as aviation group expands into scenic tours

A CAREER change became a turning point for charter pilot Carola Woods, who now runs new scenic tours as part of her growing role in the aviation industry.

Woods, who operates with White Star Air Charter at Ballina, spent years working in hospitality in the local area before following her passion to become a qualified charter pilot.

The company has recently launched premium scenic flights alongside private corporate charter services, giving passengers a bird’s-eye view of the region’s coastline, hinterland and marine life.

“I had a career change pretty late in life and never looked back,” Woods said.

“I was in hospitality for many years and when the 2022 floods hit I started thinking about what else I could do. Aviation crossed my screen and I thought I’d give it a go.

“When you’re doing something that you love and you’re passionate about, you just wake up every day keen to go.”

Woods now works as both business development manager and charter pilot for the company’s expanding charter operation.

The new experiences include a Byron Bay scenic flight and an extended Discovery Flight taking in Mount Warning/Wollumbin, with seasonal aerial whale-watching flights beginning in July.

Woods said the classic Cessna 172 aircraft she uses offers a flying experience unlike larger commercial planes.

“You get a very up-close-and-personal experience with aviation,” she said.

“You get to watch the pilot work, see everything happening in the cockpit with commentary and everyone gets a window seat.”

While the scenery is a major drawcard, Woods believes the flights offer long-term residents a fresh perspective on the region.

“We’ve got waterfalls, rainforests, pristine beaches and incredible coastline,” she said.

“Most of us explore it from the ground. What we’re offering is the opportunity to experience it from the air, which a lot of people probably haven’t had a proper chance to do.”

Woods said sharing the experience with passengers was the most rewarding part of the job.

“I’ve seen people moved to tears after a flight,” she said. “They’re a different person when they touch down, and that’s what inspires me

“I’m lucky to be with an amazing team of pilots who are equally passionate and eager to fly and share the experience. The industry is growing; there’s more opportunity for women and it’s exciting to be part of that.”