Pazdzior’s first trip to Indonesia was in 2017, when he was asked if he was interested in being contracted to support the aircraft.
“It was -35 at home and +30 there, so it sounded very appealing.”
Initial training has been established and updated training occurs during maintenance.
“It’s mainly heavy maintenance now being a consultant towards the aircraft guiding proper methods and procedures.”
Their covid-19 rules are stricter than Canada, with direct policies that must be followed.
“Even to fly domestically within Indonesia, a validation of a ‘negative’ covid test result must be acquired within three days prior to flight, and multiple checkpoints of verifying the proper documents must be in hand.”
Along with enjoying the warm climate, Pazdzior enjoys the friendly people and their good humour.
“Learning the culture as well as the do’s and don’ts opens up a lot of venues.”
Most of the maintenance as of late takes place in the Papua Province of Indonesia, to support the recovery and repair of an AT802 aircraft.
“It’s more of a Third World experience here in Papua and  with poverty that you see. Civil war between the Free Papuan Army and Indonesia does have travel advisories issued by many countries including Canada.”
“Experiencing this part of the world, mainly the Papua Province of Indonesia, makes me realize how Canada is truly and proudly my home,” concluded Pazdzior.

by JUDY WELLS, Recorder Staff