Last Flight With Captain Sokhi

We had a chat with Alvin Kathembe, a fellow pilot on the flight from New York, to get his views and remarks about Captain Sokhi, aviation, and more.

Teteley Isogol: This was Captain Sokhi’s last flight. Were you aboard the flight from JFK to JKIA?

Alvin Kathembe: Yes, I was. We flew from JKIA to JFK and then back.

Teteley Isogol: How was the flight? Was it sad, or was it euphoric?

Alvin Kathembe: "It was beautiful" is how I would describe it. Everyone was in good spirits, but it was also a bit sad because we all knew this was Captain Sokhi’s last flight.

Teteley Isogol: How would you describe him?

Alvin Kathembe: He is a gentleman, very professional. Just the perfect Captain. Often, that’s what you want from a Captain. He leads the team and gives you space to do your thing. He listens to you when there is something to consider alongside the rest of the crew. That’s a great example of how to be a Captain. He is also very calm while performing his duties.

Teteley Isogol: Is this the first time you have been on board for a Captain's last flight?

Alvin Kathembe: Yes, the first ever.

Teteley Isogol: Was this the first time you flew with Captain Sokhi ?

Alvin Kathembe: I have flown with him a couple of times, mostly on international routes.

Teteley Isogol: How long have you been with KQ?

Alvin Kathembe: Twelve years now, since my first flight in 2012.

Teteley Isogol: What was your first flight?

Alvin Kathembe: I will never forget it. My first flight was to Accra, Ghana. I tried my best to sleep the day before, but it was difficult. It was an early morning flight. I remember I was very nervous and didn't know what to expect. My instructor, Captain Abdi Webby, tried his best to put me at ease, but his efforts weren't very successful. It would have been sentimental to have flown with him during his last flight, but unfortunately, that did not happen.

Teteley Isogol: What’s your flight time since 2012?

Alvin Kathembe: I've accumulated around 7000 hours (about 9 and a half months) so far. I feel it's okay, but I can still do more.

Teteley Isogol: Most favorite routes?

Alvin Kathembe: Paris is amazing, I enjoy flying to JFK, Bangkok Thailand, London and also Amsterdam.

Teteley Isogol: What advice would you give to anyone aspiring to get into aviation?

Alvin Kathembe: Discipline is key. This applies to both your personal and professional life. The study periods are very intense and expensive. You need to approach them properly to develop good habits that are crucial for your success.

It was a very interesting session with Alvin. Finding a young pilot conquering the skies with KQ is very inspirational, especially for those seeking to do the same. Regarding Captain Harpal Sokhi, we thank you for your service and wish you a blessed retirement. From the KQ family, Asante.