Few people are more widely travelled than a BA pilot, so The Club asked where they go when they swap their wings for wheels
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1. The Apache Trail, Arizona, USA
Says who? Senior First Officer Ilkka Tahvanainen, Airbus A380/A320 fleet
“This route runs through the Superstition Mountains to Apache Junction and is the epitome of the Wild West. I stumbled upon it by accident, taking a wrong turn, and loved the beautiful desert landscape. You’ll also find Wild West-type shops, and restaurants playing great country music.”
Car of choice: An SUV
2. The Camino de Santiago, Spain
Says who?First Officer Borja Kepa Diez Santaeufemia, Airbus A320 fleet
“Driving along the northern coast of Spain is one of the best ways to get a feel for the area. You won’t find many tourists, so you can really appreciate the green, hilly route. Soak up the dramatic views of the coastline and Basque country.”
Car of choice: Maserati Quattroporte
3. The Sea to Sky Highway, British Columbia, Canada
Says who? Captain Rob Johnson, Airbus A320 fleet
“This drive starts at sea level in Vancouver and follows the edge of Howe Sound up into the mountains to Whistler Village. It’s a relatively short route but the views are stunning. Stop at Shannon Falls and watch the water cascading over the cliffs. In spring and summer there’s a small café, so it’s always worth a stop.”
Car of choice: A white stretch limo
4. Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
Says who? Captain Rob de Martino, Airbus A380 fleet “This is a classic route for a reason. Take a short detour up the Santa Ynez valley, into the Californian coastal hinterland full of vineyards and farming country. Stop at the hamlet of Solvang – Danish is still spoken here, and that plus the half-timbered housing make you feel as if you could be in Denmark.”
Car of choice: Chevrolet 409
5. Terrigal to Hunter Valley, NSW, Australia
Says who? First Officer Aoife Duggan, Airbus A320 fleet
“My husband grew up on the Central Coast, so we try to spend a lot of time there. The scenery is stunning and the wineries are wonderfully welcoming. I love the wildlife you see en route, particularly the kangaroos at dusk. We always stop off in the pub at Wollombi for a chilled-out drink and some food.”