About Tomás Santos

Early interest in aviation

I was born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal. My interest in aviation began at a young age, when I first used Microsoft Flight Simulator X with an old joystick that belonged to my father. What started as curiosity quickly developed into a long-term ambition to study aviation seriously and build a career in this field.

Since then, flight simulation has remained part of my aviation self-study, not as a substitute for formal flight training, but as a way to develop familiarity with procedures, cockpit workflows, navigation concepts and operational discipline. Over time, I have used several desktop simulation platforms, including FSX, X-Plane 11, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and X-Plane 12.

From 2023 onward, I began taking aviation study more seriously, actively researching, reading and learning about pilot training, flight operations, aviation procedures and the wider structure of the airline industry. This website is part of that same effort: a place to organize my work, document my progress and develop a more professional approach to aviation study.

Preparation for integrated ATPL(A) training

Having completed my pre-university academic path in Portugal, I am now preparing to begin integrated ATPL(A) training at a local aerodrome later this year. Before starting formal classes, I have already been building familiarity with ATPL theory, aviation procedures and the operational environment around my future training area.

My current preparation is focused on developing a disciplined foundation before formal training begins. This includes aviation theory review, Portuguese VFR procedure study, flight planning concepts, phraseology, navigation basics and a growing interest in the technical and human factors that influence safe flight operations.

Aviation focus areas

My aviation interests are centered on the areas that connect pilot training with real operational performance. I am especially interested in how good procedures, good instruction and good decision-making can shape safer and more capable pilots.

Professional goals

My long-term goal is to develop as a professional pilot with a strong safety culture, eventually progressing toward command responsibility. Beyond line flying, I am also interested in pilot training and cadet development. Every professional pilot begins as a student, and I believe early-stage pilots deserve serious instruction, clear guidance and instructors who understand the responsibility of shaping future crews.

For that reason, I want my aviation development to include more than license progression alone. I want to build knowledge in procedures, safety, training methods, human factors and technical documentation, so that my future work can be useful both inside the cockpit and in training or mentoring environments.

Current stage