top header mail
top header phone

News & Blogs

blog-single-arrow

60 seconds with Head of ACMI Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker has been an aviation enthusiast all his life.

After completing his BA hons in Airline and Airport Management, Daniel joined the wonderful world of aviation.

Daniel Parker head of ACMI at Smart Aviation

What does a typical day look like for you?

I get into the office fresh and early, just as the hangars open up for our airline clients. I touch base with them asking how things are looking for them operationally for the day and also the coming week. It is also important to ascertain if they have any issues or overdue maintenance etc. I research new businesses, looking at upcoming airlines or clients who I have haven’t spoken to before so that I can initiate and build a relationship with them.

What do you love about working in Aviation?

Just like everyone will say, no two days are ever the same in the world of aviation. The ACMI market has grown rapidly over the last few years, showcasing new airlines specialising in ACMI and even established airlines starting to place a couple of spare units to assist ACMI sales. The buzz of the aviation world always inspires me. I have been an aviation enthusiast since a very young age and the way technology has evolved and is driving the aviation industry forward is phenomenal. For many people, they are on holiday when they have their first drink at the airport waiting to board. For me it’s when I see the aircrafts on the ramp and also the smell of the jet fuel!

What is the most challenging part of your job?

Standing out in the ACMI world can be challenging so providing a unique selling point for the company and myself is an important factor in my role. I would say my unique selling points would be that I am honest, someone you can trust and I’m always on hand H24. My phone is always by my side and I will always handle my clients requests personally. This in turn helps build crucial relationships with new and existing airlines, showing them we care about their business and will be there to fully support their needs. We leave no stone unturned and treat each request as a bespoke requirement. We offer the best price as our main priority is to solve the situation swiftly without the intention of just thinking about profits. We ensure our clients get the best rates and our transparency encourages recurring business.

What one item do you rely on most to do your job?

Tough question as there are many factors that enable me to achieve my role to the best of my ability. I would say my personality and interpersonal skills have enabled me to build strong relationships with clients and airlines. A lot of them have become good friends which in turn keeps my role enjoyable and reminds them that I will always be at hand to assist them if ever in need and vice versa.

What do you do when you are not working?

Well, I like working and as mentioned I pretty much have my phone on me H24, so I will always reply to emails and calls. However, on the very rare occasion when I do relax, I like playing Paintball… a lot! I assist my local paintball centre when they are short staffed and I am a qualified marshal to assist at the centre when they have group bookings such as birthday parties, which is great fun. I also enjoy horse riding, play golf and badminton.

Our business revolves around you

Exactly what
you need

You’re dealing with the experts. Our goal is excellence in service and execution – our extensive knowledge and expertise ensure we deliver.

Cost effective with no compromise

Our unrivalled operator relationships and leverage in the European market ensures you get the most cost-effective solution, without compromising on quality.

We are always
available

Our operational support team is on-hand 24/7, 365 days a year, to deal with the unexpected and keep you flying – for total peace of mind.