WHY ARJEN DEKKER

11,324
Total Hours
6,982
PIC Hours
8,367
Heavy Jet Hours
62
Countries Flown
20+
Years Experience
Direct Turkish Experience

Operated for Turkish Airlines

From 2018 to 2024, Captain Dekker operated B747-400 cargo flights for Turkish Airlines through MyCargo Airlines — based in Istanbul (LTBA/LTFM) conducting scheduled and non-scheduled worldwide cargo operations. First-hand knowledge of Turkish Airlines' operational standards, Istanbul airspace, and Turkish aviation culture.

Long-Haul Command

Proven Widebody Captain

Over 8,300 hours on the Boeing 747-400 — one of the most demanding widebody aircraft in commercial aviation. Extensive long-haul command covering all of Turkish Airlines' key route regions: Europe, Middle East, Asia, Africa, North and South America, and the Far East.

Training & Standards

Line Training Captain

Nominated Line Training Captain — experienced in instruction, checking, and standardization of flight crew to the highest operational standards. Fully aligned with the discipline and procedural rigour that defines Turkish Airlines' world-class operation.

Safety & Data

FDM Gatekeeper & Trusted Pilot

Elected Trusted Pilot and Flight Data Monitoring Gatekeeper — proactive involvement in safety data analysis, risk mitigation, and flight operations liaison. Strong SMS, TEM and FRMS background fully compatible with Turkish Airlines' safety culture.

Istanbul Operations

IST · SAW · ESB Familiarity

Extensive operational experience at Istanbul Ataturk (LTBA), Istanbul International (LTFM), and Sabiha Gökçen (LTFJ). Deep understanding of Turkish airspace, ATC procedures, and the unique operational environment of one of the world's busiest aviation hubs.

Technology & Innovation

Tech & AI Minded Aviator

Bachelor of Engineering background combined with active embrace of aviation technology, EFB systems, and AI tools in flight operations. Aligned with Turkish Airlines' continued investment in modernisation and next-generation fleet operations on B787 and A350.

LICENSE & RATINGS

License

EASA ATPL(A)

Full Airline Transport Pilot License under EASA regulations. EASA Class I Medical current and valid.

Type Rating

Boeing B747-400 · LTC Qualified

Current B747-400 type rating with Line Training and Checking Commander qualification. Last OPC: March 2026. Ready for B777, B787 or A350 type rating conversion.

Language

ICAO English LPE Level 6

Expert level — the highest ICAO language proficiency endorsement. Also fluent in Dutch (native), Spanish, and professional German.

Navigation

NAT-HLA · FANS · RVSM · PBN · CAT III

Fully qualified for North Atlantic, oceanic, performance-based navigation, and low visibility operations. US Visa C1/D. Clean record throughout career.