Midweek Interview with David Gendle, Head of Sales, AAT Kings
The challenge for the industry is… To have one voice as ultimately we are all fighting the same fight for the good of travel and tourism.
The things I like about my job are… The relationships I have formed over the years and some of the great people I have worked with, and of course the parts of the world it has allowed me to see.
And the frustrations… Not being able to achieve everything I want to do, now.
If I didn’t work in travel I would be a… Fighter pilot.
Qantas or Virgin? That’s like asking if I like beer or wine – it’s a tough call.
My proudest moment was… Parachuting out of a perfectly good aircraft just 300m from the ground and landing with no injuries.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was… Let’s just say it involved a few wines in the Hunter Valley celebrating a milestone birthday with some very close friends.
I try to relax by… Heading out with my wife on our stand-up paddle boards.
The last time I feared for my life… An emergency landing in a 767 returning from escorting an educational. Loud bangs, smoke, escape slides and fire engines were all in force, and if nothing else, it was a great snapshot of how people handle stress.
If I can, I always try to avoid… Checking-in luggage when travelling in the USA for work.
I really wish I had… More time in the day.
The best advice I’ve ever received was… After all the facts are weighed up, sometimes you just need to go with your gut instinct when making decisions.
I don’t understand why… People take so much carry-on luggage onto a flight and wonder why they can’t fit it into the overhead bins.
My greatest weakness is… Is trying to do too many things at once.
And my greatest strength… Being able to listen.
If I was prime minister I would… Hope that I could have the morale fortitude to stand up to the factions and do the right thing for the country and not the party.
If I won $1 million on the lottery I would… Pay the bills, support my extended family and use my long service leave for an exotic holiday.
If I could be someone else for one day I would be… Hugh Jackman. Hello ladies!
I’ve always wanted to travel to… Southern Africa with my wife as my previous trips have been for work.
My favourite holiday was… My last one! It was our 30th wedding anniversary and so it was special.
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