Why I Keep Choosing SmartLynx Australia
After six years of VFR flying, SmartLynx Australia DHC8 Captain Pearce Bennett was ready for something more. That’s what brought him to SmartLynx Australia, where he was offered the chance to operate in the multi-crew IFR environment while still flying to some of Australia’s most challenging destinations.
“I don’t think there are many companies in the world that offer the variety of flying SmartLynx Australia can,” Pearce says. “One day it’s gravel runways or tight strips, the next it’s major international airports.”
Since joining, Pearce’s role has grown in step with his passion. While he continues line flying, he has also taken on greater management responsibilities behind the scenes. Over the past year, he’s served as the DHC8 Technical Pilot, and more recently, he earned his command upgrade to Captain on the DHC8.
One of his proudest achievements came with the successful introduction of the DHC8-200 and the launch of the Lord Howe Island route from QantasLink. “We’re now an ACMI provider for QantasLink. Soon, we’ll be operating the Sydney to Lord Howe Island service fully under the SmartLynx Australia banner,” he explains.
Pearce has learned a lot during his time with the company, but one lesson stands out: be open to opportunities beyond flying. “You never know what projects you might end up being part of,” he says.
That openness has not only helped his career evolve but also expanded his skill set — from mastering multi-crew coordination to developing a sharp eye for technical documentation and regulatory detail in his role as Tech Pilot.
When it comes to challenges, Pearce is methodical. “I like to be proactive — come up with a plan and break the problem into smaller tasks. That way, it doesn’t feel overwhelming.”
Most days, you’ll find him flying the Bravus mine contract in the DHC8-300. When he’s not in the air, he’s deep into his technical duties, always working to improve and contribute in meaningful ways. It’s that balance between the adrenaline of flying to exciting places and the purpose behind the scenes that keeps him motivated.
SmartLynx Australia, Pearce says, is a company that takes pride in getting the job done. It’s a culture built on reliability, adaptability, and a shared passion for aviation. For those considering a role at SmartLynx Australia, his advice is simple: “Just say yes. There are so many different paths and opportunities here. You never know where it might take you.”