We were lucky to catch up with Fatima Alikhan recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Fatima with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my parents, who made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States. They sacrificed their comfort, leaving behind familiar surroundings and embarking on a challenging journey to create a better life for our family. Their determination and resilience in the face of adversity have profoundly influenced my perspective on hard work and commitment. Witnessing their struggles and triumphs has taught me the importance of perseverance and the rewards that come from dedication.
As my parents built successful businesses, they demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their goals. Their tireless efforts to provide for our family and contribute positively to the community showcased the significance of diligence and responsibility. They were not only focused on personal success but also on being outstanding citizens, which further reinforced the value of hard work in making a meaningful impact. Their example has inspired me to adopt a similar approach, emphasizing the importance of contributing to one’s community while pursuing personal and professional aspirations.
In addition to their entrepreneurial spirit, my parents instilled in me the belief that hard work is a pathway to opportunity. They emphasized the importance of education and continuous self-improvement, encouraging me to pursue my passions with dedication. This foundation has shaped my own work ethic, motivating me to approach challenges with a positive attitude and an unwavering commitment to achieving my goals. Overall, the lessons learned from my parents’ experiences serve as a guiding force in my life, driving me to strive for excellence in all that I do.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
For the past 14 years, I have dedicated my career to the aviation industry, where I’ve taken on various roles that have shaped my professional journey. Starting as a flight attendant, I developed a deep appreciation for the intricacies of air travel and the importance of exceptional customer service. My commitment to the industry expanded as I became a union member and lobbyist, advocating for the rights and needs of aviation professionals. This multifaceted experience has not only enriched my understanding of the aviation landscape but has also fueled my ambition to explore new horizons, including my pursuit of a pilot’s license.
After making the exciting transition to private aviation, I learned the nuances of catering, hospitality administration, and concierge services. This shift allows me to blend my passion for aviation with a focus on providing high-end, personalized experiences for travelers. I have always believed that travel should be more than just a means of transportation; it should be an enriching experience. By delving into the world of private aviation, I aim to enhance the travel experience for individuals who seek luxury and exclusivity in their journeys.
In line with this vision, I launched my business, Flight Selective, which offers travelers access to luxurious products and services tailored to their needs. Flight Selective is designed to cater to discerning clients who value exceptional service and memorable experiences. By curating a selection of luxury offerings, I strive to elevate the travel experience and create lasting memories for those who fly with us. This venture represents not just a business, but a passion project that reflects my commitment to excellence in the aviation industry.
One of the most exciting aspects of Flight Selective is our future goal of building a community for exclusive clients who travel in luxury through private flights. I envision a space where like-minded individuals can connect, share their experiences, and inspire one another to embrace a motivational and enriching travel lifestyle. By fostering this community, we aim to create a culture that celebrates the joys of travel while providing unparalleled service and support.
As we move forward, I am thrilled about upcoming initiatives and events that will further enhance the Flight Selective experience. We are constantly seeking new partnerships and opportunities to expand our offerings, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible service and products. Through these efforts, I hope to not only elevate the standard of luxury travel but also inspire others to explore the world with a sense of adventure and curiosity, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey in the aviation industry, one of the most impactful skills I developed was flexibility. The nature of aviation often requires unpredictable schedules and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. By embracing flexibility, I was able to explore various roles and opportunities within the industry, from being a flight attendant to engaging in advocacy as a union member and lobbyist. This adaptability not only opened doors for me but also allowed me to thrive in a dynamic environment where new challenges constantly arise.
Curiosity also played a crucial role in shaping my journey. My eagerness to learn and explore new avenues in aviation drove me to seek out diverse experiences. I was motivated to travel to new heights in my career, both literally and figuratively, which led me to pursue additional training, such as obtaining my pilot’s license. This innate curiosity fostered a mindset of continuous growth and learning, enabling me to trust in my career path and the organizations I collaborated with, ultimately leading to a richer, more fulfilling professional life.
Finally, time management emerged as an essential area of knowledge throughout my career in aviation. The ability to prioritize tasks and manage my responsibilities within tight timelines became a vital skill that I honed over the years. This proficiency not only improved my efficiency in various roles but also contributed to maintaining a balanced lifestyle amidst the demands of the industry. Mastering time management has proven invaluable, allowing me to navigate the complexities of aviation while still pursuing personal and professional goals effectively.
Essentially, my best advice is to “go with the flow” when it comes to traveling and the aviation industry. American philosopher, Ralph Emerson said, “it’s not the destination, it’s the journey” and learning to relax and be confident within the journey is the key.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes I am looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations that share a passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences. In particular, I am interested in connecting with clients who view travel as a luxury and prioritize comfort and quality in their journeys. These clients are often seeking to enhance their flying experiences, whether through personalized services, exclusive travel packages, or curated itineraries that cater to their unique preferences. By partnering with like-minded individuals, we can work together to transform ordinary trips into extraordinary adventures.
If you are interested in collaborating or discussing potential partnership opportunities, I encourage you to reach out. You can connect with me through my professional email or social media platforms, where I am open to exploring ideas and sharing insights. Together, we can create tailored travel experiences that resonate with those who value the nuances of luxury travel, ensuring that each journey is not just a trip, but a memorable event.
Hoping to encourage individuals with a passion for travel and flight to joining the aviation industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Flightselective.com
- Instagram: @msfatimaali & @flightselective
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