Captain John Connor, an airline pilot for 44 years, has hung up his professional wings after piloting his final flight into Bristol Airport where he was based for more than 20 years.
His Thomas Cook A320 from Paphos was greeted by a spectacular water arch courtesy of the airport fire department when it touched down and there was a guard of honour formed by airport staff when he disembarked from his aircraft, accompanied by cabin crew and First Officer, David Perry.
“We wanted John to remember his last flight with us and – thanks to Bristol Airport – we were able to pull out all the stops," said Paul Hutchings, chief pilot for Thomas Cook Airlines. He added: "I know John (who lives in Cheddar) will be sorely missed by his colleagues and wish him all the very best for a wonderful retirement.”
Airport aviation director Shaun Browne said: Forty four years of flying is an amazing achievement so we were delighted to help the Thomas Cook team to pay tribute to Captain Connor on his final flight. Having been based at Bristol Airport for over two decades, he has enabled thousands of holidaymakers from the South West to enjoy breaks in many of the world’s most popular hotspots.”
Pictured: Presentation to Capt Connor
