Neale Langdon’s professional aviation journey reflects a lifelong dedication to training, mentoring, and enhancing aviation safety across both domestic and international sectors. His aviation career began at the age of 15 in Melbourne. After obtaining his Commercial Pilot Licence, his passion for developing others became evident when he became a flight instructor. At Skybird Aviation, Essendon Airport, he quickly rose to the roles of Chief Flying Instructor and Chief Pilot, laying the foundation for a career centred around education and operational excellence.

In 1986, Neale began his airline career with TAA, flying iconic aircraft such as the Twin Otter, Fokker F27, and the DC-3. During the Australian pilots’ dispute, his F27 experience enabled him to work with Malaysian Airlines, before returning home to fly with Australian Regional Airlines. Neale then took up a role with Singapore Airlines, where he flew the Boeing 747/200,300 and later the 747/400, before achieving his first jet command on the Boeing 777.  At Singapore Airlines, Neale earned the affectionate nickname “Captain Nice Nice”, a reflection of his unwavering commitment to mentoring cadet pilots—particularly those lacking experience or confidence. He gave many a chance to succeed under calm, supportive guidance in challenging conditions, earning lasting respect from colleagues and students alike. Though often invited to join the Singapore training department, his home base in Perth kept him grounded in his values and location.

After 19 years abroad, Neale joined Virgin Australia, progressing from Captain to Training Captain. In this role, he guided pilots at every career stage—from Second Officers new to jet operations to Captains stepping into training roles themselves. Neale was pivotal in transitioning pilots across multiple aircraft types, including the B777 and A330, ultimately managing training and checking operations for Virgin’s international long-haul fleet. With the restructuring of Virgin Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic, Neale stepped into the vital role of 737 Fleet Standards Manager. Here, he once again became known for balancing regulatory rigor with compassionate leadership. His approach provided development pathways for pilots in need of additional support while upholding the highest training and safety standards.

For the past 16 months, Neale has been serving as Acting Head of Training and Standards for Virgin Australia, overseeing pilot, cabin crew, and ground staff training. Notably, he has led the implementation of Evidence-Based Training (EBT) within the pilot group—an initiative that represents a fundamental shift in the way airline training and assessment is conducted. His leadership in embedding EBT reflects not only a deep understanding of modern aviation demands but a future-focused commitment to continuous improvement in safety outcomes. Neale is currently the CEO and Head of Operations for Virgin Australia’s Part 142 Training Organisation. He also serves as the 737 Fleet Standards Manager and has been acting as Head of Training and Checking for Virgin Australia. 

Neale Langdon’s four-decade career reflects a rare combination of technical excellence, regulatory knowledge, and compassionate mentorship. He has consistently elevated flight standards and safety—whether in the cockpit, the simulator, or the boardroom. His legacy is felt not just in the procedures and programs he has built, but in the thousands of pilots and aviation professionals whose careers and capabilities have been shaped by his guidance.

In recognition of his outstanding and ongoing contribution to flight standards and aviation safety in Australia, Captain Neale Langdon is awarded the Captain John Ashton Memorial Award.

2019  Captain David Evans

2020  Captain Graham Stokes FRAeS

2021  Royal Flying Doctor Queensland Section

2022  not awarded

2023  Captain Mark Tatton

2024  Captain Marcus Grey