New Member Spotlight
Name: Lisa Sasse FRAeS, 55
Location: Warwick, New York
Job title: Chief Executive Officer, FlightStart Solutions and Vice President, Safety & Security CellBlockFCS
What inspired you into aviation? When I was six years old, on my first flight, I decided I wanted to be a Flight Attendant. Oddly enough, it wasn’t just the cute uniform or the friendly faces, it was what I interpreted flying to be, a way to transport people safely. Even the demonstration of the oxygen masks was very serious in my young mind. As we hit some turbulence during the flight, I remember thinking, they have rules to follow to keep themselves safe too, instinctively instilling confidence due to their training, I didn’t give the turbulence a second thought. That is where my passion began, in that moment in time. My passion grew every time I heard the roar of a helicopter overhead. After studying for business, I plunged into aviation, both fixed and rotary wing, starting with commercial aviation and then settled into business aviation. I have had the privilege to work with numerous Fortune 50 flight departments, large fleet helicopter organisations and critical response aviation companies. I have enjoyed close relationships with the OEMs and governing entities.
What is the best thing about your current role? Effecting and influencing safety in aviation. Each opportunity to educate and train for safety and security procedures is invaluable. Especially lithium battery thermal runaway concerns.
What made you join the Royal Aeronautical Society? The leadership that is represented to the aviation community and my personal experience working with the Royal Aeronautical Society, through my work with the Flight Safety Foundation for over 20 years.
What do you hope to get out of your membership? The ability to utilise and influence protocols set forth by the Royal Aeronautical Society to growing membership.
What three items would you take with you to the space station? Aside from the necessary items, pictures of my loved ones, a journal to capture thoughts and experiences and inspirational reading.
What’s your favourite aircraft? I love them all but I am partial to business aircraft.
Who is your biggest inspiration? I find inspiration in several people and things. I have to say one person specifically is a very important person in my life. She inspired me in numerous ways throughout the years. Her level of authority in a non-female environment, demonstrated the ability to be the very best regardless of the circumstances. Challenges that come into our lives, can sometimes be perceived as negative or distracting. When this has happened, I try to choose hope and inspiration to become better.
Piece of advice for someone looking to enter your field? There is nothing more gratifying than reaching altitude, looking out, above the clouds and being at complete peace. Those of us who are fortunate enough to fulfil that dream, have the responsibility of ensuring the most stringent safety practices. I would encourage that a person embrace that and make it their number one focus.