One look at Gennady Pripuskov will remind you of a slightly older version of Tom Cruise from Top Gun. Ask him why did he want to become a pilot, he replies, “It’s like looking at the world without boundaries.” And, after years of being a test-pilot on fighter jets, he says it is always very challenging to fly a civil airline. “There are many peculiar and important aspects to be taken care of. And you know that you are responsible for all your fellow passengers,” he points out.
Admitting that it has been his childhood dream to be a pilot, Gennady says the Russian ones have always been his favourites. “Being a Russian, I have always loved flying them. I love the latest Sukhoi Superjet 100. The technology is amazing and the engine is super efficient and takes lesser effort.”
The pilot explains that the Superjet had to take 720 test flights in extreme weather conditions, system assessments, perfomance testings, only after which it was allowed for public. “I have been flying it for over two-and-a-half years now and when I or any of us are flying, the safety of passengers is our utmost concern. We make sure that every part has been thoroughly examined and rectified. ” Even if difficult, Gennady says he would prefer the civil airliners anyday, as, “the fighter jets are tested for a war, but the civil airlines work towards peace.” His two brothers too, he reveals, are test-pilots. “Its like a family business, though none of my parents were ever pilots.” he laughs.