Rotor destiny

Whether it was childhood dreams of being an astronaut or an ambition to earn her wings as an ace fighter pilot, Juliet Earle’s passion for flight never waned.

After putting her NASA goals to one side, Juliet began her professional career in physical education while racing bikes in New Zealand and overseas. Yet she still hadn’t found her calling.

“Then, I reached a fork in my life.”

It was on a family holiday in Glentanner that her fate as an aviatrix was sealed.

“While there, my parents treated me to a helicopter trip for my birthday.”

“When we landed on a glacier, I had a bit of an epiphany. This was the missing link.”

From there, Juliet went on to obtain her license; she worked in the industry for a few years and trained as an instructor. When her son was six months old, GCH Aviation, one of New Zealand’s premier aviation providers, was hiring. Juliet got the job.

Juliet is part of the GCH Aviation Commercial Helicopter Operations in Christchurch alongside the GCH Aviation Westpac-sponsored Rescue Helicopters, NZ Flying Doctor Service, and Jet Operations. Its five helicopter bases in New Zealand and Pacific Island Air in Fiji make it one of the largest aviation companies in the country. 

When asked what was so special about the job, Juliet says, “It just really feels like the place I’m supposed to be.”

She also cites the super supportive team and the variety on offer.

“No two days are the same. We’re always doing different things and experiencing new places.”

“My favourite areas to fly in are the high country and Central Otago. For me, you can’t beat flying down to the mountains.”

Now working in the industry for 15 years, 11 of those with GCH Aviation, Juliet remains one of the few women helicopter pilots in the country.

Juliet hopes more women will become helicopter pilots and thinks all it will take is for them to experience a trial flight.

With its 40 years in business and 100 per cent safety record, GCH Aviation offers helicopter flight experiences throughout Canterbury and Kaikōura.

Want to begin your journey? Every voucher or experience purchased until 12 May goes into the draw to win a High Tea for two at The George | gchaviation.com