Eapen, Managing Director of Speedwings Aviation Group, brings over 40 years of aviation expertise, overseeing Speedwings Travel & Cargo Pvt Ltd, Speedwings Aviation Academy, and Speedwings Aviation Management Consultancy Services. His aviation career began in 1975 with Kuwait Airways at Kuwait International Airport, where he advanced through key roles in passenger and cargo reservations, ULD control, cargo flight planning, space optimization, dangerous goods handling, load control, ramp safety, lost & found services, and airline claims & liabilities. Having worked with a diverse range of aircraft, from Viscount to Boeing 747 freighters, Eapen possesses extensive operational expertise. His specialized training with SITA in London equipped him with proficiency in aviation network systems, automation, and global airline reservations, enabling him to contribute significantly to Kuwait Airways' FAST IV automation project from 1988 to 1994. Eapen’s passion for Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) dates to 1979, leading to his qualification as a licensed DG Professional Instructor, internationally recognized by IATA and DGCA (Government of India). His visionary leadership transformed DG training by pioneering the Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) approach, establishing Speedwings as India’s first IATA Accredited CBTA Center Provider on June 9, 2022. Beyond aviation, Eapen has contributed to the travel and tourism industry, collaborating with SITA, UFTAA, and FICCI. As the first Asian representative in UFTAA’s Passenger Agency Program Global Joint Council (PAPGJC) and a member of the UFTAA Global Education Committee, he has shaped international training programs. He also served as a Board Member at Avinashilingam University. Currently, National President of IATA Agents Association of India (IAAI) and President of the Airline Users Rights and Grievances Redressal Forum (AURGRF), Eapen remains committed to enhancing airline services, passenger rights, and aviation standards, cementing his legacy as a visionary leader in aviation, travel, and tourism.
Mr. Gopal, has an exceptional 28-year career in the airline industry, including three years in passenger handling at Sharjah Airport and 25 years in air freight operations at the Lufthansa Cargo Hub, Sharjah International Airport. His expertise spans cargo logistics, dangerous goods handling, and aviation safety compliance. Throughout his career, he managed end-to-end cargo operations, including ULDs, perishables, temperature-sensitive shipments, live animals, and dangerous goods. His role encompassed regulatory compliance, customs coordination, cargo deconsolidation, and logistics optimization. As a certified DG expert, he received training from IATA, Gulf Air, Lufthansa, and SAS, specializing in DG regulations, temperature-controlled cargo, and aviation security. He conducted in-house training on DG regulations and cargo handling for five cargo terminals at Sharjah International Cargo Hub. As a key operations leader, Mr. Gopal supervised cargo logistics teams at Sharjah Airport, ensuring resource availability, streamlined Lufthansa Cargo and Air Arabia Hub operations, and regulatory compliance. His responsibilities included safety and security audits across 22 GHA facilities in the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Far East, process optimization, and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) implementation. He played a pivotal role in RA3 certification for SAS, established an exclusive screening facility, and managed ISAGO certification, IQSMS safety systems, and ULD screening machine installations. In 2018, Mr. Gopal transitioned to Speedwings as a senior management faculty member specializing in air cargo handling. Recognizing his expertise, IATA approved him as a DG training instructor in 2020, followed by DGCA certification. In 2022, IATA accredited him as a DGR Assessor & Instructor under the CBTA approach for all ten functions at Speedwings, further cementing his leadership in DG training and cargo operations.
With over three decades in aviation ground handling, Thamilarasu has successfully led operations across major Indian airports, including Chennai, Cochin, Calicut, Amritsar, and more. He has managed up to 42 customer airlines, ensuring seamless terminal, ramp, and maintenance functions while optimizing workforce and resources to maintain profitability. A skilled trainer in Ramp Safety, Customer Service, and Ground Support Equipment operations, he has extensive knowledge of Dangerous Goods regulations. He has built strong relationships with regulatory authorities (BCAS, DGCA, CISF, Customs) and ensured strict compliance with audits, safety protocols, and operational standards. Adept at labor relations, budgeting, and cost control, he has handled manpower planning, equipment management, and emergency response coordination. His leadership in customer airline management has strengthened client retention, service excellence, and on-time departures. Committed to fostering a safety-driven culture, he ensures efficient ground handling operations and regulatory compliance, contributing to seamless airport functioning. Before joining Speedwings in 2025, he served as Senior Assistant General Manager – Ground Handling at AI Airport Services Ltd., overseeing operations at Amritsar Airport and managing the Material Management Division for the Northern Region, covering 30 airports.
Brijesh, a Bachelor of Arts graduate from Mangalore University, brings over 18 years of expertise in the air cargo industry, specializing in Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) across Middle East airports. Since April 2020, he has served as a Senior Instructor for Air Cargo and DGR Training at SpeedWings, leveraging his extensive experience as a DG Specialist, IATA CBTA Assessor, and Instructor. His career began in 2001 as a Cargo Assistant at Speedwings Travel & Cargo Pvt Ltd, Kochi, after completing the IATA/FIATA Cargo Introductory course. In 2005, he became a full-time cargo faculty at Speedwings Aviation Academy, earning his IATA/FIATA DGR – Initial qualification in 2010. His passion for DGR led him to transition to Category-6 DG training in 2012, consistently renewing his certification bi-annually. In 2011, he joined HazInspect ME FZC, Sharjah, as a Cargo Officer-DG Acceptance, handling DG shipments from Sharjah and Dubai shippers while working closely with chemical manufacturers, distributors, and forwarders. In 2018, he moved to Sealine Shipping & Removals LLC, Dubai, as a Cargo Supervisor – DG Handling, later advancing to DG Specialist, overseeing DG shipments across the UAE and conducting in-house training. His responsibilities included verifying DG documentation, compliance, packaging, marking, and labeling, as well as managing DG break-bulk shipments.He further honed his skills through specialized training with Emirates Airlines, DNATA, and other carriers, focusing on DG acceptance and GCAA safety protocols. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he relocated to Kerala in June 2020. Recognizing his expertise, IATA granted him DG Instructor status in 2020, followed by DGCA certification. In 2022, IATA approved him as a DGR Assessor & Instructor under the CBTA approach, covering all ten functions at SpeedWings.
With 35 years of extensive experience in the aviation industry, Joseph Mathew has held key leadership roles, including Ramp Administrative Manager and Load Control Manager at Bangalore Airport, Senior Passenger Services Officer with the Department of Civil Aviation, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, and Station Acting Duty Manager for Emirates Airlines at Trivandrum and Calcutta International Airports. He has also served as the Head of Aviation Academies in various locations, shaping future aviation professionals. His expertise spans multiple aviation domains, including Air Traffic Control, Meteorology, Load Control, Cargo Services, Baggage Handling, Ramp Operations, and Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). As a specialist in Weight & Balance, he is proficient in handling passenger and freighter aircraft, including B747, B777, B737, A320, A330, A340, and more, across major airlines such as Emirates, Indian Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, Thai Airways, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways, and Air France. In ramp operations, he has managed the handling of narrow and wide-bodied aircraft, ensuring efficiency and compliance with safety protocols. His leadership in aviation training and education has been instrumental in developing employee learning plans, conducting flight operations training, and mentoring students for career advancement. He has played a crucial role in course development, enhancing training programs related to Airport Ground Operations, IATA subjects, Customer Service, Passenger Services, Ramp Operations, and Safety Management Systems. His structured training programs have ensured new recruits receive comprehensive education in key aviation operations, particularly in Weight & Balance, Load Sheets, and safety protocols. With a commitment to operational excellence and industry training, He continues to be a driving force in aviation education and ground operations management.
Rajeev is a retired customer service professional with over 25 years in the airline industry, having served with Jet Airways and Emirates Airline. He began his career as a Reservation & Ticketing Agent with Jet Airways in 1993, later becoming a licensed load controller for Boeing and ATR aircraft. With Emirates, he worked at Cochin and Dubai International Airport (T3), serving as a supervisor across check-in, transfer desk, baggage services, ramp services, and load control. His extensive experience at Dubai International Airport provided him with deep expertise in international airport operations. Passionate about training, he has mentored numerous aviation professionals, coaching new recruits and assisting in staff development.
Shani is a seasoned professional with 20 years of expertise in the Travel & Tourism industry. A postgraduate in Tourism Management (MTA), she has advanced her IATA Travel & Tourism skills at both foundation and consultant levels. She specializes in Global Distribution Systems (GDS) like Galileo, Abacus, and Worldspan, with a strong focus on practical application. Starting her training career with Speedwings in 2004, she now serves as the Head of Travel & Tourism and IATA Training Coordinator. She oversees branch coordination, supports offline and distance learning centers, and manages GDS training and assessment.
Kaveri has over 20 years in academia and training, she is a dedicated educator specializing in business management, aviation studies, and professional development. As Head of the BBA Department at Speedwings Aviation Academy, she leads faculty development and academic coordination. Her experience spans roles as a guest faculty, program coordinator, teaching management, finance, and psychology. Passionate about mentoring and strategic learning, she holds an MBA and an MS in Applied Psychology.
Shareetha began her journey with Speedwings as a student and has grown within the organization, transitioning from student to faculty and now DG Training Coordinator. With a decade of experience as a Cargo faculty, she plays a key role in coordinating, conducting, and facilitating both IATA and DGCA training sessions within the DG department.
Anju is an accomplished aviation professional with over 10 years of experience in customer service, aviation training, and administration. She currently serves as a Passenger Ground Service Faculty in the Aviation Department, since July 2024. Throughout her career, she has gained valuable expertise through notable positions with prominent airlines such as Qatar Airways and Air Pegasus. Her educational background includes a BBA in Aviation, a Diploma in Aviation Management, and she is currently pursuing an MBA in Human Resource Management to further enhance her leadership and organizational skills.
Sheeja is a highly experienced and versatile professional with a strong background in travel, tourism, and education. Her career spans over 15 years, during which she has excelled as a trainer, administrator, and mentor. She has a proven track record of success in various roles within the travel and tourism industry. She has worked as an IATA trainer, handling foundation and consultant classes, as well as CRS training. She has also served as a principal at Al-hind Academy, where she managed faculty, organized events, and conducted seminars. Additionally, she has experience in student counseling, course coordination, and travel coordination. Sheeja holds a Master's degree in Travel & Tourism Management. She is also IATA-UFTAA Foundation & Consultant certified and proficient in various computer reservation systems
Motivated and experienced English language trainer with a passion for helping individuals improve their language skills. Proficient in designing and delivering customized training programs for various age groups and proficiency levels. Teaching and coaching individuals across various proficiency levels. Passionate about enhancing language skills, communication abilities, and confidence in learners through interactive, mock interviews and structured training methodologies. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in English Language.
Mansi is an experienced aviation and logistics professional with expertise in cargo operations, dangerous goods handling, and customer service, holding an MBA degree. She has been training students in IATA Introductory and Cargo Supply Chain courses, covering air, road, rail, and sea transport. Previously led customer support for hazardous materials at Hamriyah Freezone Authority, optimizing service delivery and compliance. Extensive background in cargo handling with Danzas AEI, Sharjah Aviation Services, and Lufthansa Cargo, specializing in documentation, load planning, and stakeholder coordination. Strong skills in team leadership, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, ensuring seamless logistics and freight management.
With an illustrious career spanning four decades, John Chitrarath is a distinguished expert in cargo handling and Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) training. His extensive experience includes 28 years dedicated to cargo management and dangerous goods handling, with 12 years as a certified DGR instructor at Lufthansa Cargo. As the Handling Manager for the Middle East and Iran, he oversaw all regional aircraft and warehouse handling processes, ensuring strict compliance with international safety standards. His expertise in dangerous goods handling dates to 1986 when he obtained his DG certification from Sharjah Airport Authority, continuously enhancing his skills through advanced cargo handling and aviation security training. Certified in weight and balance operations, he has also completed specialized courses in ramp and load control. A passionate trainer, John joined Lufthansa Cargo in 2007 as a DGR instructor, a role he held until his retirement in 2018. His commitment to professional development is evident in his continuous participation in the IATA Professional Skills for DGR Instructors course every two years since 2006, a rare achievement in the aviation industry. His recent certifications include the DG Function 7.3 renewal (valid until 2026) and multiple GCAA competency courses, reinforcing his expertise in dangerous goods instruction. In 2023, John joined Speedwings as an IATA CBTA-accredited DG Professional Trainer, leveraging his vast industry knowledge to train aspiring aviation professionals and enhance safety standards across the industry.
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