Employee Interview
Asahikawa Airport Office Airport Operations Department Flight Information Section
Please tell us about your work
I work in the Flight Information Division, which maintains and manages the airport to ensure safe takeoffs and landings for aircraft. I'm mainly in charge of snow removal. Asahikawa Airport receives some of the most snowfall in Hokkaido, so we're always looking for more efficient snow removal methods to ensure regular operations. Another part of our division's job is to scare away birds and animals that have wandered into the airport.
How did you end up joining HAP?
I joined HAP as a new graduate (3rd year) and wanted to work in Hokkaido, where I was born and raised, in the future, so I applied to HAP because I had studied at an aviation-related technical school. I was quite worried at first because it required highly specialized knowledge that was completely different from what I had learned at school, but my worries were quickly allayed by the well-established educational system at HAP Academy.
When do you feel your work is rewarding?
Our department's mission is to respond to events that don't occur on a daily basis. I feel most satisfied when we are able to respond quickly and accurately to a sudden incident in accordance with the rules for safe operations. Even when snow removal is the responsibility of the entire Airport Operations Department, I feel a sense of accomplishment when I take the lead and work together to remove the snow smoothly.
What is your most memorable experience working here?
I guided an aircraft during a heavy snowfall, a task known as "follow-me." It was a whiteout situation, and I guided the aircraft while driving a vehicle. It was my first time doing this in my first year at the company, so I was really nervous. When the plane carrying our passengers arrived safely at its parking spot, I felt a deep sense of relief.
What is most important to you in your work?
Since I was assigned to the Flight Information Division, my seniors have always instructed me to prioritize safety over efficiency. I have also been thoroughly told to respond only after confirming that various requests from airlines are truly safe as an airport operator, and now I constantly teach this to my juniors.
What message would you like to give to those who want to become HAP?
HAP is a company that is responsible for the safety and security of Hokkaido's skies, so I would like to work with people who can think of new things while adhering to the basics and rules. It may also be important to have a mindset that allows you to enjoy a wide range of tasks. Why not join us in running an airport that will leave a lasting impression on your travel memories?
A day's schedule
IT'S MY STYLE
| hobby | trip |
|---|---|
| Hokkaido Recommendations | The penguins at Asahiyama Zoo (walking around in winter is especially cute and relaxing) |
How to spend your holidays
Whenever I have a long vacation, I travel around the country by plane. I'm interested in the eastern part of Hokkaido, which is hard to get to, and in particular the Abashiri Prison in Abashiri. Now that I have a car, I'd like to drive there myself.