Maodez’s big day began where SWISS crews also start their shifts: at the Operations Center at Zurich Airport. Together with the two pilots, Maodez discussed the outbound and return flights on flight number LX2066/67 to Porto, including weather conditions, fuel planning, and other operational details. He then met the entire cabin crew during the briefing before heading directly to the aircraft via the crew bus. For Maodez, his dream became a reality at that moment: he was right in the middle of the crew’s daily routine.

On the tarmac, Maodez got to see the Airbus A321neo with registration HB-JPD up close and accompany the pilots during the outside check. The walkaround of the aircraft is an important part of the pilots’ routine before every departure. During this, he learned what they look for before takeoff and viewed the aircraft from a perspective normally hidden from passengers. This moment alone made his eyes light up. It was hard to believe that shortly afterward he would be allowed to take a seat in the cockpit.

After boarding, Commander Marco Conrad greeted the passengers, provided information about the flight route to Porto, and introduced the cockpit crew, including Maodez. His family, who were also on board, listened to the announcement and captured the moment with a camera.

A seat with a view
In the “jumpseat,” an extra seat in the cockpit, Maodez was completely in his element. In front of him were all the displays, switches, and instruments he had previously known only from books and videos, but which he was now experiencing live for the first time during a real SWISS flight. After takeoff from Zurich, the pilots explained to him how navigation works, what information appears on the displays, and how a flight is monitored from the cockpit.

A special moment came when he looked at the navigation system. There, Maodez discovered a waypoint that had been named after him as a surprise. Another highlight followed as they looked out from the cockpit: Together, they searched for his home region on Lake Geneva and for Vevey, his hometown. For a brief moment, his world on the ground connected with his dream above the clouds.

Short stop in Porto
After landing in Porto, Maodez watched as the aircraft was immediately prepared for the return flight. Cleaning, checks, and other procedures all came together so the flight to Zurich could depart on time. Together with his parents and brother, he was allowed back onto the tarmac. This time, he was accompanied by First Officer Giacomo Zollikofer, who explained more details about the aircraft to him. Full of enthusiasm, Maodez told his family about his cockpit experience and took the opportunity to snap more souvenir photos.

On the return flight, Maodez was once again allowed to take a seat in the cockpit and enjoy the view above the clouds one last time.

A day to remember
Back in Zurich, the aircraft landed safely at the airport. Saying goodbye to the cockpit was hard for Maodez. At the same time, he admitted with a smile that he was tired and was now looking forward to the end of the day. A day as a pilot had shown him just how fascinating this profession is, but also how much preparation, concentration, and teamwork go into it.

Thanks to the dedication of the Sternschnuppe Children’s Aid Foundation and the support of SWISS and Skyguide, two special days were made possible for Maodez: filled with many new experiences, countless memories, and a glimpse behind the cockpit door that he won’t soon forget.