
The Pilot Project Podcast Episode 66: The Counter-Drug Ops: Flying SAR and counter-narcotics missions in the Caribbean and flying the De Havilland Dash 8 for PAL Part 1 - Pat Lalande, Trevor Juby
Aug 26, 2025
Pat Lalande, a retired Master Warrant Officer and tactical coordinator with PAL Aerospace, joins Trevor Juby, retired Lieutenant Colonel and Chief Pilot, to share their incredible journeys from the RCAF to counter-narcotics missions in the Caribbean. They discuss the challenges of military aviation, including close calls during Search and Rescue operations. Insights on transitioning from the Army to Air Force highlight the importance of varied military training. Their passion for aviation shines through as they navigate the complexities of current missions in a dynamic region.
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Leverage Previous Service For New Trades
- Use prior military experience as a leadership and discipline advantage when switching trades.
- Pat says army leadership and self-discipline prepared him for the demanding academic and operational ASOP role.
ASOP Training Is Academically Intense
- The basic ASOP course is academically heavy and attrition can be high; Pat reports a 50% graduation rate.
- The course covers math, sensors, radar, infrared, navigation and electronic warfare intensively over ~94 training days.
Last-Minute Shift To Aurora
- Pat was initially steered toward Sea Kings but reassigned to the Aurora at the last minute to fill a need at 415 Squadron.
- He later realized Aurora suited him better because he disliked life at sea.
