Brian Town
Captain
Brian Town, one of Global Air Charters‘ Captains, enjoys playing guitar, 3d printing and spending time with his family. He is also a former US Army Infantryman. Brian served 3 years in the 101st Airborne Division, of which 14 months were in Bayji, Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In the army, he was awarded an Army Commendation Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and a Combat Infantryman Badge. Read on to learn more about Brian.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Ham Lake, Minnesota, about 25 miles north of Minneapolis.
What education and certifications do you hold?
I graduated Magna Cum Laude from St. Cloud State University with a bachelor’s degree in Aviation, emphasizing professional flight. I also hold an FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate, with type ratings on the G-1159, G-IV, and GV.
What is one specific moment with a customer that made you realize why you do what you do?
It was always gratifying to be able to fly people who were on their way to see their families for the first time before COVID, especially around the holidays.
What is your favorite thing about working for GAC?
The people I work with because we have a tightly-knit group of pilots and flight attendants.
What do you enjoy most about your position?
I enjoy the challenge of flying an airframe anywhere on the earth, sometimes on short notice. There is no typical rotation, so there is always a new challenge to face.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a pilot?
It was something that fell into my lap shortly after graduating from college. Flying gets into your blood, and it’s hard to turn back!
What is your favorite plane to fly?
The GV is a great airplane, but the G-III will always hold a special place in my heart. The G-III has very little automation, so it will quickly punish any laziness in the flight deck.
What motivates you to do the best on the job?
I think it’s just a given for the profession that you give 100%. Anything less would compromise safety.
In your opinion, what makes a good pilot?
It’s essential to be a technical expert in the airframe you fly, have good interpersonal skills and crew resource management, and always be learning.
What was your most memorable moment with GAC?
I was recently the captain of a plane that evacuated several Ukrainian refugees with cancer from Poland to Toronto. It was very rewarding doing something positive in the world, even if only for a few people.
What was the most fun you’ve had on the job?
Some of my favorite overnights have been with Jake Cowen and Kristen Cassidy. These nights usually consist of finding a great dinner and drinks somewhere and passing a guitar around.
What do you like to do when you aren’t flying?
I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids. When I have time to myself, my hobbies include learning guitar, playing video games, skiing, 3d printing, and hunting/target shooting.
What is your favorite travel destination? Why?
Besides home, my favorite destination with GAC has been Bozeman, Montana. I was there with my friend and colleague, Gavin Weissman. We went hiking on the mountain trails with his dog Remy. Afterward, he took me to a music festival downtown. Then the crew took a day to explore Yellowstone National Park, which is gorgeous.
We’re glad to have you on the team, Brian Town!