From Bangladesh to Debrecen: The Journey of a Commercial Pilot

captain by the engine

Many children dream of one day flying large commercial airliners, but only a few have the determination and opportunity to turn that dream into reality. In the second part of our alumni series, we introduce Md. Shaheen Alam, who travelled from Bangladesh to Hungary to study at the University of Debrecen and complete his pilot training at PHARMAFLIGHT.

We asked him to share how his professional journey has unfolded since graduating from university and completing his flight training.

Could you tell us about your career after graduation?

“It is always a pleasure to share the milestones of my career with my former instructors, and I truly appreciate your interest.

After graduating from the University of Debrecen with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and successfully completing my pilot training at PHARMAFLIGHT, I returned to Bangladesh to begin my professional flying career. I joined Novoair as a First Officer on the ATR 72-500. This role provided me with a strong professional foundation and invaluable experience in commercial airline operations.

A few years later, I joined Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the national flag carrier of Bangladesh, where I currently serve as a First Officer on the Boeing 737-800NG. Transitioning to the Boeing 737 was a significant milestone in my career, allowing me to operate both domestic and international flights while continuing to develop my skills in a dynamic airline environment.”

captain in the cockpit

Do you still remember your time at PHARMAFLIGHT and the University of Debrecen?

“Absolutely. Looking back, I am sincerely grateful for the education and training I received at PHARMAFLIGHT and the University of Debrecen. The knowledge, discipline, and professionalism I gained during my studies played a vital role in preparing me for a career in commercial aviation.
Without that foundation, I would certainly not be where I am today.
I hope my story will encourage and inspire current students who are pursuing the same dream. I would also like to thank PHARMAFLIGHT and the University for staying connected with their alumni. I wish the entire PHARMAFLIGHT team continued success, and I will always be pleased to hear from them.”

pilot celebrating 1000 hrs in the air

Stories like Shaheen’s demonstrate that dedication, high-quality training, and international experience can open the door to a successful career in commercial aviation. We are proud to see our graduates flying for airlines around the world and wish Shaheen continued success in his professional journey.