AviateUnited Aviate Academy
  • Aviate entry points
    • University
    • Flight School
    • Building Experience
    • United Express
    • United Family Program
    • Aviation Professional Organizations
    • Not sure where to start?
    • Ready? Apply now
  • Aspiring to fly
    • United Aviate Academy
    • Youth Programming
  • Resources
    • News and events
    • Success stories
    • Eligibility chart
    • Aviate Program Guide
    • Aviate network
    • Frequently asked questions
    • Contact

< Back to success stories

Aviate helped San Francisco B777 First Officer Arno D.’s childhood dreams take off


Arno D.’s pilot journey

Joined Aviate viaUnited Express entry point

Transitioned to United fromAir Wisconsin

Current role777 First Officer

BaseSan Francisco

Follow along with Arno's success at United.

United’s B777 First Officer Arno D. has been fascinated by flying since his first flight at age four. He grew up in Belgium and flew United’s route from Brussels to the United States numerous times, which only furthered his interest in flying for United someday.

“I grew up in Europe, so being able to go back and experience different cultures around the world has always been my dream,” Arno shared.

Arno joined Aviate when the program began in 2019, which coincided with his first year at his regional United Express carrier. Having a direct path to the United flight deck was an ideal opportunity for him, along with the added benefit of having an Aviate Coach.

Arno valued his experience with his Aviate Coach, as she helped him navigate the airline world, which was brand new to him. He is still in contact with his Coach, and she continues to be a fountain of knowledge for his career.

Today, Arno also serves as an Aviate Coach for current participants, and he hopes to be a pillar of knowledge just as his Coach was for him.

See more Aviate success stories

Aviate helped Houston B737 First Officer Ryan M.’s pilot career take flight

Aviate helped Houston B737 First Officer Ryan M.’s pilot career take flight

Read their story

Los Angeles B787 First Officer Jason S. is proud to be an Aviate role model

Los Angeles B787 First Officer Jason S. is proud to be an Aviate role model

Read their story

Newark B737 First Officer M.C. R. used Aviate to go from flight attendant to pilot

Newark B737 First Officer M.C. R. used Aviate to go from flight attendant to pilot

Read their story

United Aviate

Aviate on Instagram

Follow Aviate on Instagram

Subscribe to Aviate

United - A Star Alliance member

Copyright ©2026 United Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy policyCookie preferences.