In this Q&A, we meet Chelsea Bok and learn more about her journey to becoming a pilot with Sea to Sky Air. Her story highlights the pursuit of dreams and the joy of finding one’s true calling.
Q: Pursuing a career in aviation after obtaining a Business Aviation diploma and a commercial pilot license is impressive. Please share a bit about your journey and what motivated you to choose a career in flying?
Chelsea: My wanderlust is ultimately what led me down the path to becoming a pilot. The adventure started when I was 13, on a road trip through Europe with my dad, and my passion for exploration only grew from there. After a decade of backpacking and working in hospitality, an all-female flight crew inspired me to look into aviation. Once I booked an introductory flight experience, I was hooked! It was exhilarating, and I knew then that flying was my future. I quickly enrolled in a business aviation program and haven’t looked back since!
Q: With a passion for snowboarding and motorcycling, it’s clear you have a love for adventure. How has your background in these activities influenced your approach to piloting and your experience in the coastal mountains?
Chelsea: Working as a pilot at Sea to Sky Air, exploring the landscape around the Squamish and Whistler area, is mindblowing. My love for adventuring and exploring new things has translated into my career, and I respect the mountains and weather we experience in the area. Plus, having Whistler as a neighbour for snowboarding has been a major bonus!
Q: As a pilot with Sea to Sky Air, you have the opportunity to fly a Cessna 172. Could you tell us what it’s like to fly this type of plane?
Chelsea: The Cessna 172 holds a special place in my heart as the first plane I ever flew. It’s easy to fly and beautifully engineered with the perfect balance of stability and speed. It’s ideal for sightseeing tours with 360-degree views for all passengers.
Q: And finally – what is your favourite part about flying?
Chelsea: The freedom. The ability to see and explore areas that you can’t from the ground. There’s nothing quite like being surrounded by beautiful scenery and feeling so at peace. Flying gives me the freedom to explore the world from a whole new perspective.
