Q&A with Preslava Ivanova

Following on from Simon Cooper's recent article, I'm delighted to take the hot seat for the next installment of our Q&A series

How long have you been involved in aircraft charter/aviation?

I have had a longstanding interest in aviation since a young age, but I first got involved with it in December 2016 when I took a job offer from Chapman Freeborn, and I haven’t looked back since. 

Tell us about your first charter? 

My very first charter was for a company event from Germany to Marrakesh for a 100 passengers, but using a B737-800 with 189 seats. As it was a celebratory event, there were special requests which we had to take care of to ensure the celebrations started from the moment they boarded the aircraft. Among other things, we organised upgraded catering and an open bar for the group to ensure they were celebrating on board in style! It was undoubtedly a challenging first charter but a successful one with happy customers! 

What has been your most challenging charter and why?

My most challenging charter project (regarding planning and set up) was a one-way flight from Europe to Japan using an A330-300. We were tasked with arranging for several sports cars to be parked around the terminal and creating media corners (to cater for the extensive worldwide coverage that the event receives) – we were even asked to organise a DJ to play at the terminal AND on the aircraft! Finally, the client had requested full branding of the interior of the aircraft - from headrest covers to their own video materials displayed on the IFE screens. The project required considerable planning and commitment and, while challenging, has taught me a massive amount about the world of chartering! 

Any memorable moments?

My most memorable moment since working for Chapman Freeborn has to be the time when I was asked to fill in for one of our on board couriers and deliver an engine part for an urgent AOG situation in Keflavik, Iceland. The original courier had an issue with their connecting flight which led to them missing the scheduled flight to KEF. Due to the time-critical nature, the client decided to charter a private jet. By coincidence, I had an overnight bag packed in my car and was therefore quickly whisked off to BHQ airport to board a private jet to Iceland! The experience was incredible, and I will never forget it. When we landed at KEF, I was greeted on the tarmac like a VIP, and I successfully delivered the part to the aircraft engineers who were waiting to fix the AOG aircraft. 

What is your favourite aircraft? 

My favourite aircraft is a cargo aircraft due to its uniqueness. It is the Antonov-225, and there is only one of it in the world! It has a maximum payload of over 250 tons and is the only aircraft which has six engines! Click here for more information on the AN-225 Mriya. I am truly hoping that one day they will have a passenger version of this aircraft! 

How did you become a broker and any tips for people interested in becoming one?

I had just graduated from university having completed a Tourism Management degree when I saw an advert on LinkedIn for a Trainee Passenger Charter broker at Chapman Freeborn. After having been invited to two interviews (which I thought I had completely messed up!), I received a call to say that they would like to offer me the job. I immediately accepted the offer - this was by far one of the best decisions I have ever made because I get to come to work every day and look forward to it! The atmosphere in the office is amazing, and the team I work alongside have quickly become some of my favourite people. My tips for anybody considering becoming a charter broker with Chapman Freeborn is to check out our website and send in a CV - you won’t regret it! 

Thanks for reading! :)