Captain Paul DaSilva flew his final official flight for LIAT – The Caribbean Airline last weekend.

Before landing flight LI 362 from Barbados, Captain DaSilva did a low pass over the runway, tipping the wing of the aircraft to acknowledge those who had gathered for the occasion.

He then guided the aircraft through a welcome water salute from two fire tenders from the Antigua & Barbuda Fire Service, one bearing the national flag of his native Guyana.

Captain DaSilva joined LIAT on 16th June 1986 flying the Twin Otter and Islander aircraft. He was later appointed a training captain on the Twin Otter fleet, then the fleet captain until the sale of the Twin Otter fleet.

“While I consider flying my hobby, I found training to be the most satisfying part of my job. As a simulator instructor, I also learnt a lot from observing other pilots’ performance. My stint as Chief Pilot also taught me the ‘other side‘ of the aviation business and the experience was invaluable,” Captain DaSilva said.

Captain DaSilva’s successor, Chief Pilot Captain Arthur Senhouse, recalled his first time meeting “this great little man” when he joined LIAT in the late 80s as a co-pilot on the Twin Otter aircraft.

“He was a trainer on that fleet. I quickly realised that, while he had an affinity for learning, there was a deeper desire to pass on all the information he had. This for me is what I will remember most about him; his unselfishness,” Captain Senhouse said.

LIAT Chief Executive Officer David Evans said: “Like many other distinguished airmen who have graced this great company of ours with their love for aviation, Captain DaSilva will remain etched in our memories as being special among them. His kind words of encouragement, and always looking for a good laugh, will remain with us forever.”