About NAC

Robert Clarke is a highly qualified ships captain and pilot with a remarkable vision for the aviation industry.

In 2023, amidst a wave of flight schools failing in the UK, Rob took the bold step of founding Norwich Aviation Centre (NAC). His passion for aviation, coupled with his dedication to fostering a student-led customer experience, has propelled NAC to become the leading flight training establishment in East Anglia.

With extensive experience in the maritime industry, Rob brings a unique perspective to the field of aviation. As a ship’s captain, he understands the importance of safety, efficiency, and the value of teamwork. Transferring these principles to the aviation industry, Rob aims to create an environment at NAC where students feel not only like customers but also like valued members of a vibrant aviation community.

Rob’s commitment to his students goes beyond just providing excellent flight training. He recognises the historical issues with failing flight schools and the significant financial investment that students make in pursuing their dreams and aspiration in the aviation sector. Rob is dedicated to ensuring that the customers’ investments in the aviation future are securely protected and that they receive genuine value for their money. At NAC, students can have peace of mind, knowing that their financial commitment is well placed and secured and that they will receive the highest standard of training and service.

Under Rob’s expert guidance, NAC has garnered a reputation for providing high-end flight training and exceptional customer service. Students who choose NAC can rest assured that they are receiving value for their investment, both in terms of quality instruction and the overall experience.

Rob Clarke’s leadership style is built on open communication, transparency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. He encourages his team to listen to the needs and aspirations of the students and adapt their approach accordingly. Rob believes in empowering individuals, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to the success of NAC.

Beyond his role as founder and leader of NAC, Rob Clarke is an avid aviator himself. He remains actively involved in flight operations and enjoys staying connected with the students, instructors, and staff at NAC. His genuine passion for aviation and dedication to providing an exceptional flight training experience are evident in every aspect of NAC’s operations.

When you choose NAC, you’re not just enrolling in a flight school; you’re becoming part of a thriving community of aviation enthusiasts, led by Rob Clarke’s visionary leadership. Come to NAC, where you’ll find a welcoming environment, an outstanding flight training program, and the knowledge that your financial investment is protected. Join us as we soar to new heights together!

“Just rewards for Honest Endeavours!”

Steve is an integral member of the team at Norwich Aviation Centre (NAC) as our senior flight instructor. He brings with him a lifelong passion for flying and a deep commitment to teaching.

Steve’s journey in aviation began at a young age, starting his flying endeavours at the remarkable age of 15 and achieving his Private Pilot License (PPL) by the time he turned 17. Since then, he has continued to enhance his skills and obtain additional ratings, including Night, UK IMC (now known as IR Restricted), Single Engine and Multi-Engine Piston, and Flight Instructor Night.

Alongside his aviation pursuits, Steve held the position of Operations Director for an Oil and Gas Engineering company based in Cairo, Egypt. Taking a break from his day job, he obtained his Multi-Engine Commercial License at Larnaca in Cyprus. This demonstrates Steve’s ability to balance his professional responsibilities with his unwavering dedication to aviation.

Flying has always been hiss true passion, and he feels most at home when soaring through the skies. For over 15 years, he was the proud owner of his own aircraft, which allowed him and his wife to embark on numerous exhilarating trips around the UK, Ireland, and Europe. Steve even had the opportunity to utilize his aircraft for business travel, attending meetings in Rotterdam and experiencing the convenience of air travel first hand, far surpassing traditional airline services.

Having retired from the oil and gas industry, Steve has discovered a newfound enthusiasm for teaching and passing on his extensive knowledge to aspiring pilots. Witnessing his students’ progress and achieve their own flying goals brings him immense joy and fulfilment. Steve’s dedication to teaching extends beyond imparting technical skills; he strives to inspire his students and instil in them a deep appreciation for aviation.

Amazing Fact: Steve’s passion and determination led him to achieve a remarkable feat. When he started flying, solo flight was not permitted until the age of 17. However, his dedication to flying was unmatched. By starting at the age of 15, he completed almost all of his flight training before his 17th birthday and accomplished his very first solo flight on that very day. In a serendipitous twist, Stephen even managed to fit in his first official driving lesson on the way home from the airfield after his momentous solo flight.

When you engage with Steve at NAC, you are not only benefiting from his vast aviation experience but also learning from a passionate aviator who genuinely cares about your progress. Join us at Norwich Aviation Centre, where Steve and our exceptional team are committed to helping you reach new heights in your aviation journey.

John is an esteemed Flight Instructor based at Norwich Aviation Centre, bringing a wealth of experience from his dynamic career in aviation. With a solid foundation as a commercial pilot in commanding roles at KLM, John soared to impressive heights as a Captain, Line Training Captain, Simulator Instructor and Examiner.

Originally trained as a Mining Engineer, John made the transition into the aviation world, driven by his passion for flight and adventure. His diverse background enriches his approach to teaching, providing students with unique insights and perspectives garnered from his career.

Driven by a desire to give back to the aviation community, John finds fulfilment in nurturing the next generation of pilots. As a mentor and guide, he empowers aspiring aviators to reach their full potential, instilling in them the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on the challenges of the skies.

Beyond the cockpit, John enjoys travel, cycling, and photography.

During his tenure at British Airways, Laurie piloted some of the most advanced aircraft in the industry, including the Boeing 757, 767, and 777. His deep knowledge of these aircraft, combined with his commitment to safety and excellence, has earned him a stellar reputation among peers and passengers alike.

Laurie’s journey in aviation is marked by his dedication to continuous learning and his passion for mentoring the next generation of pilots. His extensive real-world experience, coupled with his ability to impart knowledge clearly and effectively, makes him an invaluable asset to our team.

At Norwich Aviation Centre, Laurie will be leading advanced flight training programs, sharing his insights on the intricacies of commercial aviation, and preparing aspiring pilots for successful careers in the skies. His approach is rooted in practical experience, ensuring that students gain a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and human elements of aviation.

We are confident that Laurie’s presence will inspire and equip our students to achieve their highest potential. Join us in welcoming Laurie Ling to the Norwich Aviation Centre family, where his legacy of excellence continues to soar.

Richard Watts, a seasoned aviator of 25 years. Beyond the cockpit, Richard enjoys travelling and skiing. finding joy in exploration and adrenaline alike. With a rich background in aviation with experience in aerial photography and parachute. Richard has not only mastered the art of flight but also dedicated 13 years to instructing students, nurturing their aviation dreams to becoming pilots. As a respected Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) flight examiner, he ensures the highest standards in aviation, leaving an indelible mark on both the skies and the next generation of pilots he guides to success.

Jonathan’s journey in aviation began in Nottinghamshire, where he grew up within the vicinity of Gamston Airport. His passion for flying led him to acquire his Private Pilot License (PPL) at Netherthorpe, under the guidance of Phoenix Flying School. Building on this foundation, he pursued further qualifications, including a night rating at East Midlands and Doncaster, followed by an IR(R) certification with the mentorship of Simon Rolfe of NAC. Jonathan’s dedication to aviation is reflected in his impressive list of credentials, which now includes a MEP rating, MEIR certification, and an FI certificate, thanks to a generous scholarship from the Honourable Company of Air Pilots.

Beyond the cockpit, Jonathan is deeply enthusiastic about all things related to general aviation (GA). He currently operates a C172 as a proud member of the McAully Flying Group, based at Little Snoring. He has a particular fondness for the wide array of airfields available in Norfolk and the welcoming communities associated with them.

In addition to his aviation pursuits, Jonathan has a strong passion for working with young people. Since 2015, he has been sharing his expertise as a music teacher and currently holds the prestigious position of Director of Music at Norwich School. His diverse career also encompasses being a freelance organist, where he enjoys performing in solo recitals and accompanying choirs across the UK. As a testament to his musical talents, Jonathan is a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists.

During and immediately following his music studies at Birmingham Conservatoire, Jonathan had the privilege of serving as the organ scholar at both Birmingham and Norwich cathedrals. His talents shone through on several CD recordings and live performances on BBC Radio 4.

Jonathan’s journey as a Flight Instructor represents the perfect fusion of his love for teaching and flying. He eagerly looks forward to sharing his skills and knowledge with future NAC students, inspiring the next generation of aviators.

Philip Stead brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our aviation community. With an impressive career spanning the skies, Phil is a seasoned professional with a remarkable track record in the aviation industry. Phil held an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) with a flight log boasting over 7400 hours, with an impressive 6800 hours served as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) across a diverse range of aircraft and commercial jets. His extensive hands-on experience in the cockpit makes him an asset to aspiring aviators seeking to hone their skills and navigate the complexities of modern aviation. In addition to his outstanding flying credentials, Phil has held key managerial roles in the aviation sector. Serving as the UK AOC Accountable Manager and Head of Flight Operations and Training, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, overseeing critical aspects of airline operations with precision and dedication. His strategic vision and commitment to safety have left a lasting impact on the organisations he has served. Phil’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the cockpit and management offices. With a keen interest in fostering the next generation of aviators, he has dedicated his time to educating and evaluating others in the field. As a flight instructor and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) examiner, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of both private and commercial pilots. His thorough understanding of aviation regulations and procedures, coupled with his hands-on experience, positions him as an ideal mentor for those aspiring to reach new heights in their aviation careers. Phil’s vast knowledge, practical experience, and commitment to aviation education make him an invaluable member of the NAC Team and our community at Norwich Airport.

Ian McDowall provides a crucial liaison and advisory service to NAC and bridges that gap in the GA community between GA pilots and Air traffic control. Ian is an FRTOL Instructor and Examiner and devotes his time and experience to nurturing students as they progress through their training with us.

Ian was born at RAF Mildenhall, where his lifelong passion for aviation was sparked by his father, an Air Engineer in the USAF. From a young age, Ian was surrounded by aircraft, spending countless hours tinkering with them alongside his father and attending airshows. This early exposure ignited his dream of flying and laid the groundwork for his future in aviation.

Ian’s dedication and enthusiasm for aviation earned him a Flying Scholarship, enabling him to learn to fly at Cranfield as an Air Cadet. This scholarship marked the beginning of his formal training and was a significant milestone in his aviation journey.

Ian joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) and trained as an Air Traffic Controller, a role that took him across the UK and to various international locations, including the Middle East, the Falkland Islands, and Norway. His experiences in these diverse settings enriched his professional skills and broadened his understanding of global aviation operations.

To maintain his Private Pilot License (PPL), Ian continued hiring aircraft, flying models such as the PA28 and C150, and later mastering taildraggers like the Chipmunk, Maule, and Super Cub. Additionally, he worked as an Aerodrome Ground Communication Service (AGCS) operator at Old Buckenham, further enhancing his aviation expertise.

Demonstrating his technical acumen and passion for aviation, Ian undertook a personal project to build an RV7 aircraft in his father’s back garden. This project, spanning from 2003 to 2006, culminated in the RV7’s maiden flight from RAF Coltishall in January 2006.

Ian served as the last Senior Air Traffic Control Officer (SATCO) at RAF Coltishall before its closure in 2006. Following his retirement from the RAF, he transitioned to Norwich Airport in 2008, where he assumed the role of SATCO. Ian has remained in this position, continuing to contribute his expertise and leadership to the field of air traffic control.

Beyond his professional life, Ian enjoys live music, festivals, and playing the drums. His adventurous spirit and love for aviation lead him to explore new destinations, both domestically and internationally. This year, Ian is set to compete in the World Air Navigation Racing Championships in Slovakia, showcasing his exceptional piloting skills on a global stage.

Ian McDowall’s career reflects a profound dedication to aviation, from his early days at RAF Mildenhall to his current role at Norwich Airport and his support for Norwich Aviation Centres students and customers. His journey is marked by continuous learning, technical prowess, and a passion for flying, inspiring those around him and leaving a lasting impact on the aviation community.

On the Norfolk aviation scene, one name that shines bright is Linda Smith. With nearly 5000 hours as an flight instructor, Linda has become a legend in her own right, leaving an indelible mark on the Norfolk aviation community. Her exceptional skills, calm demeanor, and professional easy-going approach have earned her widespread recognition and the admiration of all who have had the privilege of learning from her.

Linda also taught our CEO Rob to fly, which ignited the aviation passion to develop NAC

Fran brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team. With a passion for aviation that has been nurtured since her early years.

Having completed her Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) exams in 2023 with >90% average pass mark, Fran’s path to becoming an airline pilot is nearly complete. Her thorough understanding of flight operations, coupled with her meticulous attention to detail, ensures the smooth and efficient coordination of our flights.

Beyond her role as a Flight Operations Officer, Fran is also an accomplished private pilot, with extensive experience navigating the skies. Her first-hand knowledge adds depth to her understanding of the operational aspects, enabling her to anticipate and address challenges effectively, and guide our next generation of aviators.

Fran’s commitment to excellence and her unwavering passion for aviation make her an invaluable asset to our team. Whether she’s coordinating flights or sharing her insights with aspiring aviators, Fran’s dedication shines through, making her a respected member of the aviation community at Norwich Aviation Centre.

Paul Swift, Operations Officer at Norwich Aviation Centre, is a seasoned aviation enthusiast with a lifelong passion for flight. Embarking on his aviation journey at a tender age of 13, Paul’s fascination with the skies led him to soar through the clouds in gliders, igniting a fervor that would define his career.

Transitioning from gliders to broader horizons, Paul’s professional trajectory saw him evolve into a distinguished figure within the aviation realm. Drawing upon his experience as a former Merchant Navy navigator, Paul seamlessly integrated his navigational prowess into the intricacies of aviation operations.

An avid globetrotter, Paul’s frequent travels to Italy not only reflect his love for exploration but also provide valuable insights into international aviation dynamics. Beyond his professional pursuits, Paul remains deeply committed to fostering youth development as an active member of the Sea Cadets, channeling his expertise to inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

With a rich tapestry of experiences and a steadfast dedication to the skies, Paul Swift continues to leave an indelible mark on the aviation landscape, shaping the future of flight with each endeavour he undertakes.

John Wightman, affectionately known as ‘Big John,’ is a prominent figure in the local aviation community, where his passion for flying has touched the lives of many.

From an early age, he was steeped in a family tradition of aviation, taking to the skies alongside his father at the tender age of 8. This experience led him to earn his Private Pilot’s License (PPL) over 25 years ago, with subsequent additions of IMC, Night, and Instructor Ratings.

With a wealth of experience in personal flying, instructing, and ferrying aircraft for maintenance, John’s expertise is well-respected. Remarkably, he seamlessly balanced his love for flying with a successful career in industry, most recently serving as the HSEQ Manager for a civil engineering company.

John’s true passion lies in sharing his love for aviation, whether mentoring aspiring pilots or providing a comforting presence for nervous flyers. His calm and relaxed demeanor in the cockpit makes him a cherished figure in the world of aviation, an embodiment of expertise and compassion.

A welcome character at NAC.

Captain David Easton is a serving 787 Captain with a major UK airline, he now lends his skills as a flight instructor  at NAC.  With many years experience as a commercial pilot for UK airlines and with a very impressive logbook of type ratings including 737, 747, 787 dreamliner, David is well placed to offer our students a high standard of flight instruction.

At 31, Gary Morris, NAC’s student and pilot mentor.

Gary works with Tom Willis, as a team they both support all the pilots and students at NAC and also represents them at NAC meetings and to the senior management teams.

Gary’s inaugural flight on November 6th 2020 in G-SEJW, marked the beginning of a remarkable aviation journey. Swiftly earning his Private Pilot License (PPL) in March 2022, Gary now holds a PPL and Night Rating and is now actively pursuing IR(R).

Beyond aviation, Gary, a seasoned emergency services manager, seamlessly integrates his diverse expertise in helping to shape the next generation of aviators at NAC.

Tom began his aviation journey at the age of 13 in the RAF Air Cadets, although he achieved his Private Pilot License (PPL) at the age of 20 and has since enjoyed exploring the UK and Europe by air.

His PPL was obtained through three scholarships in the RAF Air Cadets. Initially, he completed the Air Cadet Pilot Scheme and later received the Flying Excellence award from the RAF charitable trust, which, along with the Geoffrey De Havilland Flying Foundation, funded his PPL through scholarships. Tom continues to maintain a role with the RAF Air Cadets as a Civilian Gliding Instructor at RAF Honington.

In his professional life, he works as a High-Speed Driving Instructor and serves as the Driver Education Manager for St. John Ambulance, overseeing a team of 150+ volunteer and employed instructors who teach a range of routine and emergency response driving in cars and ambulances, both on and off-road. In his spare time, Tom volunteers as an emergency ambulance crew with St. John, responding to 999 calls in the East of England.

Tom’s background in aviation, clinical education, and driver education fuels his keen interest in Human Factors, crew resource management, and how to handle stressful situations. He firmly believes that understanding these concepts can enhance performance in all aspects of life, both as a pilot and in daily activities.

Beyond work and aviation, he is an enthusiastic explorer and climber, venturing into the UK’s countryside and national parks on foot. He can often be found at the local climbing gym, bouldering with friends.

Max Wright is an esteemed member of the flight operations team at NAC. As one of our accomplished flight operations officers, Max brings a wealth of expertise and experience to our organization. With a profound passion for aviation, Max is a qualified Commercial pilot, possessing a type rating on the Boeing 737, as well as the cutting-edge 737 Max.

Having immersed himself in the Norfolk general aviation scene for the past seven years, Max has become an integral part of the local flying community. His unwavering commitment to safety and exceptional flying skills have earned him a stellar reputation among his peers. Max’s dedication to excellence is evident in his regular involvement in flying our aircraft, where he consistently upholds the highest standards.

With Max’s extensive knowledge and proficiency, he plays a vital role in ensuring smooth flight operations and maintaining our unwavering commitment to safety and efficiency. His meticulous attention to detail and remarkable ability to handle complex situations make him an invaluable asset to our team.

When Max is not soaring through the skies flying people on holidays or contributing to the Norfolk aviation scene, you can find him sharing his passion for flight through various initiatives and engaging with fellow aviation enthusiasts. Max’s deep-rooted love for aviation and his dedication to his craft make him an exceptional flight operations officer at NAC.

Dr. Cem Aksogut, a distinguished Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) based in the UK, holds approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to conduct a range of medical examinations, including Class 1, 2, 3, LAPL, and Cabin Crew assessments. Prior to his specialisation in aviation medicine, Dr. Aksogut contributed significantly as an NHS GP Partner, showcasing his commitment to healthcare within the broader community.

With a medical degree from the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. Aksogut’s journey into medicine began with a solid academic foundation. His junior and specialist training unfolded in the diverse medical landscape of East Anglia, providing him with a comprehensive and varied medical education. Notably, his experience extends beyond the public sector, as he has been instrumental in providing private medical services for Nuffield Health, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to advancing healthcare across different domains.

Dr. Cem Aksogut stands at the intersection of clinical excellence and aviation safety, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as an Aviation Medical Examiner based at Norwich Aviation Centre.