It’s hard to find the right words when saying goodbye to someone who has been such a constant presence in your life for 25 years. My friend Richard was more than just a colleague, a mentor, or a companion — he was a rare kind of person who made an impression that time could never fade.
His wit was unmatched. He had a sharp, clever sense of humour that could light up any room — the kind that caught you off guard and left you laughing long after the moment had passed. And that smile of his — it wasn’t just warm, it was magnetic. It had a way of putting people at ease, of saying without words, “You’re among friends.”
He was a powerhouse in business, a true master of his craft. With over 45 years in the aviation industry, he was the kind of man who could bring any deal to the table — and close it. He had a natural talent for negotiation, a strategic mind, and a quiet confidence that drew people in. He didn’t just do business — he built relationships, he earned respect, and he made a lasting impact on everyone he worked with.
The aviation world has lost a giant. A man whose passion for the industry was as enduring as his reputation. But more than that, we have lost a friend, a gentleman in every sense of the word.
To say he will be missed is an understatement. His legacy will live on in the stories we tell, the laughter he inspired, and the countless lives he touched along the way.
Fly high, my friend. Richard, you’ve more than earned your wings!
From Nicky & all my team @ ASI