Academy offers RM418,000 scholarship

KOTA KINABALU: Layang Layang Flying Academy (LLFA), a Sabah-based subsidiary of Layang Layang Group (LLG), announced the launch of the LLG Johan Poong Pilot Scholarship, offering a deserving individual the opportunity to pursue their dreams of becoming a professional pilot.The scholarship, personally championed by LLFA’s founder, Datuk Johan Poong, covers Commercial Pilot Licence with Instrument Rating (Frozen Airline Transport Pilot Licence) valued at RM418,200. LLG Group General Manager Captain Shahdon Poong said detailed information about the scholarship, including eligibility requirements and application procedures, can be found on LLFA’s official Facebook and Instagram profiles.

“Sabahans can take pride in LLFA’s achievements and its contributions to the aviation industry. As a locally-based company, LLFA embodies the spirit of Sabah and represents the aspirations of the Sabahans.

“By establishing a strong presence at the recent Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima ‘23), LLFA aims to inspire and encourage more Sabahans to pursue careers in aviation, fostering growth and development within the local community,” he said in a statement.

LLFA made its debut at Lima ‘23 through its acquisition of the GB1 GameBird aerobatic aircraft. Shahdon said LLFA, with its extensive experience and expertise in pilot training, was excited to showcase its commitment to Malaysia’s air transport safety while promoting Sabah’s rich culture and propelling the future of aviation in the region.

LLG, incorporated in 1994 as Layang Layang Aerospace Sdn Bhd, has evolved into an integrated general aviation services provider, catering to a diverse range of aviation needs. With offerings in air transport, aircraft maintenance and engineering support, the company extended its expertise to encompass a flight training academy. LLFA, established in 2014, is a renowned aviation education and training organisation operating under LLG. With a rich history of success in Malaysia, LLG established itself as a leader in the industry.

With almost 28 years of experience, LLG is firmly established in the aviation industry in Malaysia, with a network of bases in Kota Kinabalu, Miri, Kuching, Sibu, Ipoh, Subang and Johor Bahru. Its subsidiary, Layang Layang Aerospace (LLA), is a leading provider of helicopter and aeroplane transport services for private and government charters. LLA handles a range of services, including medical evacuations, flying doctor services, runway calibrations, air photography/videography, aerial surveys, equipment procurements, aircraft maintenance and storage of aircraft parts.

LLFA, as an integral part of the LLG, focuses on aviation education and training programmes, providing trainee pilots with the knowledge, skills, and attitude to excel in the industry. The academy offers comprehensive aviation programmes in both aeroplane and helicopter training. LLFA and its business aviation unit, LLA, operate on an integrated partnership model that ensures the best delivery experience for passengers, clients, and trainee pilots.

Layang Layang Group of companies are authorised and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. This recognition underscores LLFA’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in its operations.

LLFA is committed to Malaysia’s National Transport Policy and aims to strengthen the country’s air transport safety aspect to meet ICAO standards. As such, Johan who is also the Group Managing Director of LLG, took the initiative to lead the Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (A-UPRT) and aerobatic training in Malaysia, a project that will benefit long-term flight training and public aircraft operations in Malaysia while raising the level of the country’s aerosports activities. By pursuing this goal, LLFA will become Malaysia’s first flight academy to achieve several milestones, including becoming the First Advanced UPRT and Aerobatic Training Academy in Southeast Asia, registering the GB1 GameBird aircraft as the first aerobatic aircraft registered in Malaysia, and recognising Captain John Sham as the First Advanced UPRT and Aerobatic Pilot and Instructor in Malaysia.

LLFA takes great pride in its pilot competency and aircraft readiness, which will be represented by John, an experienced former Royal Malaysian Air Force fighter instructor pilot and Krisakti Air Display pilot, who has been performing in the LIMA air show since 1997. John completed his Type Rating GB1 GameBird training in the United States in December 2022 and underwent Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (A-UPRT), aerobatics and formation flying training at the British Aerobatic Academy in March 2023. Approved and recognised by CAAM, Civil Aviation Authority UK (CAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), John has undergone intensive aerobatic training with Maciej Kulaszewski, a World Aerobatics Champion and renowned aerobatic trainer, to ensure that the GB1 GameBird is safely operated at the international professional level.

Shahdon said as LLFA makes its debut at Lima ‘23 with the GB1 GameBird aerobatic aircraft, the company remains dedicated to its core values of safety, excellence and promoting Sabah’s cultural heritage. LLFA takes pride in incorporating Sabahan motifs and designs in its merchandise, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of Sabah’s vibrant traditions. “By promoting Sabahan motifs in their merchandise, LLFA aims to raise awareness and appreciation of Sabah’s artistry and craftsmanship, contributing to the preservation of local traditions,” he said.

Looking ahead, he said LLFA envisions a future of growth and innovation in the aviation industry. “By participating in Lima ‘23, LLFA aims to inspire and encourage more Sabahans and Malaysians to pursue careers in aviation, while also showcasing the State’s unique cultural heritage to the international community.” According to Shahdon, LLFA envisions a thrilling journey of excellence and innovation in the aviation industry. With the GB1 GameBird aerobatic aircraft as its wings, he said LLFA aims to soar to new heights by participating in local, regional, and international air shows, captivating audiences with awe-inspiring aerial displays that showcase the skills and expertise of its pilots. “As LLFA becomes a hub for Advanced UPRT and aerobatic training in the region, it will attract aspiring pilots from around the world, fostering a vibrant community of aviation enthusiasts who share a passion for precision and excitement in the skies. “With a firm commitment to safety and a relentless pursuit of excellence, LLFA sets its sights on joining prestigious air races, pushing the boundaries of speed, skill, and innovation, as it embarks on an exciting future in the world of aviation,” he added.