CargoForwarder Global’s ‘Spotlight On…’ brings a different air cargo function to the fore each week, showcasing the huge variety of careers that this industry offers. Looking at air cargo freighter operations, there is far more to logistics than the visible front end of load sheets, ground handling, and containers. Each flight requires a crew, and therefore within every well-managed airline, there is at least one person who is responsible for planning and liaising with pilots to ensure smooth, uninterrupted flight operations. This week, Veena Dudhia (VD) takes us behind the scenes at One Air, in her function as Pilot Manager, and gives her views on the industry’s challenges and needs.
CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
VD: I am the Pilot Manager at One Air. My role is dynamic and revolves around managing our growing pilot community, ensuring their welfare, and providing ongoing support. I serve as the first point of contact for any issues that arise and focus on maintaining clear and consistent engagement with our pilots.
Additionally, I work closely with multiple departments across the business and play an active role in decision-making processes that impact our pilot community. Simply put – if it affects our pilots, I’m involved. With 80+ pilots and counting, there’s never a quiet moment!
CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
VD: Fast-paced! Some days, I’m focused on pilot welfare and engagement, other days, I’m working on strategy, training, or regulatory matters. Since One Air is a new and growing airline, there’s a continuous need for forward-thinking and adaptability. Every decision we make reflects our company values, helping create an environment where pilots feel valued – and that makes all the difference.
CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
VD: I’ve been in the aviation industry for over 20 years, primarily in passenger operations. My journey into air cargo began three years ago, when I joined One Air from its very inception. I was headhunted for the Pilot Manager role due to my previous experience in crew management.
The opportunity to be part of building a new airline from the ground up was something I couldn’t pass up. Watching One Air grow and evolve has been an exciting and rewarding experience.
CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
VD: The people. I love being part of a team where everyone is passionate about what they do. One Air has a close-knit, family-like culture – something you don’t always find in larger airlines. Plus, being involved in decisions that genuinely make a difference for our pilots is incredibly rewarding.
CFG: What do you see as the greatest challenges in our industry?
VD: One of the biggest challenges right now is attracting and retaining top pilots in an increasingly competitive market. As a fast-growing airline, we’re always looking for ways to stand out and ensure we offer the best opportunities for our crew.
Geopolitical airspace restrictions are another major factor, as they can change rapidly and impact global operations. Adapting to these shifts while keeping our routes efficient is crucial.
Finally, as One Air continues to expand, developing our operational capability remains a top priority. Growth comes with challenges, but we’re focused on building a strong, sustainable foundation to support our pilots and operations long-term.
CFG: What advice would you give to people looking to enter into the air cargo industry? Any particular training they should aim for?
VD: Communication is key. This industry is built on relationships, whether it’s pilots, ground staff, or operations teams. Having a background in crew management, operations, or aviation safety is a great starting point. Most importantly being safety focused is essential. Things move fast, and flexibility is everything.
CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
VD: If it were based on One Air, I’d call it “Adventures of the Queen of the Skies” – after all, we are one of the few airlines still flying the iconic Boeing 747, and it’s incredible to see her in action!
Thank you for those insights, Veena!
If you would like to share your personal air cargo story with our CargoForwarder Global readers, feel free to send your answers to the above questions to cargoforwarderglobal@kopfpilot.at We look forward to shining a spotlight on your job area, views, and experiences.
