Curtis Hughes
Las Vegas,NV
Summary
Recently retired United Airlines B-777 Captain. Previously served as a Full Time 777 Evaluator, APD and QCL Check Airman at the United Airline Training Facility in Denver, CO. Also served as a B-787 QCL/ILI Line Check Airman, based at LAX, and DEN pilot domiciles. Adept at teaching all elements of an SMS System, including Threat and Error management , Personal Interaction Skills (e.g. Inquiry and Advocacy), Pre Briefing and Post Briefing tools and techniques. Previous experience as an ALPA Safety Committee Member, utilizing FSAP and FOQA data to establish/create safety trends and areas needing increased training focus.
Aviation professional with strong focus on safe and efficient flight operations. Skilled in team collaboration, adapting to dynamic environments, and ensuring passenger safety. Proven track record in leadership, decision-making, and maintaining high standards. Adept at navigating complex scenarios and consistently achieving operational goals.
Overview
40
40
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Captain B-777
United Airlines
06.1985 - 08.2025
- Conducted comprehensive pre-flight checks to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
- Managed flight crew operations, fostering teamwork and effective communication throughout flights.
- Implemented standard operating procedures to enhance flight efficiency and passenger experience.
- Mentored junior pilots on best practices in aviation safety and operational protocols.
- Collaborated with air traffic control to optimize flight paths and minimize delays.
- Analyzed weather conditions to make informed decisions impacting flight safety and scheduling.
- Developed training modules for new pilots, emphasizing operational excellence and regulatory adherence.
- Improved fuel efficiency by optimizing flight routes and implementing cost-saving measures during flights.
- Demonstrated versatility in operating under various weather conditions, exemplifying adaptability and resourcefulness.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing passenger concerns promptly and professionally during flights.
- Enhanced flight safety by consistently adhering to strict airline policies and procedures.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement within the team by promoting open communication channels for feedback and implementing best practices in all aspects of flight operations.
- Streamlined communication processes among team members during high-pressure situations for optimal decision-making capabilities under tight deadlines.
- Handled emergency situations with precision, executing appropriate actions to safeguard passengers and crew members.
- Maximized aircraft utilization by scheduling effective rest periods between flights while maintaining adherence to regulations governing pilot fatigue management.
- Maintained accurate records of flight hours, maintenance activities, and other pertinent information for regulatory compliance purposes.
- Collaborated effectively with first officers and cabin crew, fostering a cohesive work environment conducive to safe operations.
- Assisted in the onboarding process for new hires by providing guidance on company protocols and standard operating procedures.
- Coordinated efficiently with air traffic control throughout all phases of flight operations, ensuring seamless communication between ground personnel and cockpit crews.
- Mentored junior pilots through training programs, contributing to their professional growth and development within the company.
- Evaluated crew performance regularly, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement within the team dynamic.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to maintain current knowledge of industry trends and advancements in aviation technology.
- Facilitated productive relationships with various stakeholders including ground support staff, catering providers, fuel suppliers and airport authorities.
- Managed challenging situations calmly, such as inclement weather or technical difficulties, ensuring passenger confidence in the flight experience.
- Maintained punctual schedules for hundreds of flights, ensuring customer satisfaction and efficient operations.
- Conducted thorough pre-flight inspections, guaranteeing aircraft readiness and minimizing potential issues.
- Performed comprehensive checklists prior to takeoff to reduce possible safety issues.
- Troubleshot in-flight mechanical and operational issues and restored functionality.
- Planned routes, altitudes and speeds to provide fastest, safest and smoothest flights for on-time arrivals and high levels of passenger satisfaction.
- Executed emergency procedures to maintain passenger and cargo safety during unexpected circumstances.
- Monitored and interpreted instruments to determine flight status, airline condition and geographic position.
- Observed aircraft safety systems and operational conditions and immediately reported issues.
- Coordinated with FAA air traffic controllers in safely and smoothly navigating airspace.
- Led emergency response protocols, ensuring crew readiness for unforeseen situations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, COProfessional Aeronautics - Aviation
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FLSkills
- Adaptability under pressure
- Risk assessment capabilities
- Leadership qualities
- Professionalism and integrity
- Continuous learning mindset
- Conflict resolution
- Regulatory compliance awareness
- Technical problem solving
- Environmental awareness
- Innovation and creativity
- Mentoring and coaching
- Crew resource management
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 15 staff members.
- Collaborated with team of 30 in the development of Safety Management Program.
Affiliations
Las Vegas Raiders
Air Line Pilots Association
ASPCA
Boystown Organization
St. Joseph's Indian School
Certification
- [ATP, Commercial, B-787, 777,767, 757, 747-400, 737, A-320, A-319] License - 1985-2025
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Professional Working
Interests
- Outdoor Recreation
- Playing Sports
- Hiking
- Football
- Baseball
- Sharing travel tips, recommendations, and insights with fellow enthusiasts
- Adventure Travel
Timeline
Captain B-777
United Airlines
06.1985 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
University of Colorado Denver
Professional Aeronautics - Aviation
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University