Meet Essyl Cruz – Navigation Procedure Designer in the Aeropath team at Airways International, based in our Wellington office.
With 17 years of operational aviation experience behind her, Essyl brings a strong technical understanding and a fresh perspective to her role as a Navigation Procedure Designer at Airways International.
What I like most about working at Airways International is the opportunity to contribute to aviation from a different perspective. It’s rewarding to be involved in work that supports the safety and efficiency of the aviation system, while continuing to learn and develop professionally. I also appreciate the collaborative culture and the chance to work with people who are highly knowledgeable and passionate about the industry.
After spending 17 years in operational aviation, first in ramp control and then as an air traffic controller, I became interested in what happens behind the scenes to make air traffic operations possible. I wanted to better understand how instrument flight procedures are developed and how airspace is designed.
The Navigation Procedure Designer role offered a unique opportunity to combine my operational experience with technical analysis and problem-solving. Airways International’s reputation in aviation training and procedure design made it an organisation I was excited to join.
Stay curious and be open to opportunities. Aviation offers a wide range of career paths, and sometimes the most rewarding opportunities are the ones you don’t initially expect. Be willing to learn, seek advice from experienced professionals, and embrace challenges. Every experience helps build the skills and knowledge that will benefit you throughout your career.
One of the achievements I’m most proud of was being selected as Air Traffic Controller of the Year among a group of outstanding nominees. It was a great honour and a reflection of the hard work, professionalism, and teamwork that are so important in aviation.
I am especially proud of my experience as a Terminal Approach Controller at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. Managing complex arrival and outbound traffic flows at an airport with two intersecting runways and around 800 aircraft movements each day requires constant situational awareness, sound decision-making, and effective coordination. It was a demanding role, but one that taught me invaluable lessons and helped shape my aviation career.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and experiencing different places and cultures. Travel has given me some memorable experiences and a broader perspective on the world. When I’m not travelling, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, whether that’s relaxing at home, exploring new places together, or simply enjoying each other’s company. Those moments help me recharge and maintain a good work-life balance.
