Four New Trainee Pilots Welcomed Onboard at the Port of London Authority

Photo: Michail Kapellos, Neil Topping, Jake Bryan, Gavin Trotter

The Port of London Authority (PLA) is pleased to announce the addition of four new Trainee Pilots to its team, reinforcing the commitment to ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels on the iconic River Thames. This intake is part of the PLA’s ongoing efforts to bolster its pilotage service, which is critical to supporting trade and maintaining the Thames as a vital commercial waterway.

The new recruits, Gavin Trotter, Neil Topping, Jake Bryan and Michail Kapellos bring a wealth of maritime experience from diverse backgrounds within the shipping industry. Over the course of their rigorous training, they will develop the expertise required to safely guide vessels through the river’s busy and sometimes challenging waters.

Trainee Pilots at the PLA undergo an extensive training programme that includes practical experience on the river, simulator sessions and study for generic and local knowledge exams. This comprehensive training ensures they acquire the knowledge needed to handle the range of conditions and vessel types that pass through the Thames, one of the UK’s busiest waterways.

PLA Marine Pilotage Manager, Dave Newbury, commented:

"We are delighted to welcome our new Trainee Pilots and look forward to seeing them develop their skills. The role of a PLA Pilot is crucial and with more vessels, from large container ships to cruise liners, relying on expert guidance along the Thames, the role of a Pilot remains central to the river’s operations and safety.”

The introduction of the four trainees follows the PLA’s ongoing recruitment and investment in talent to meet increasing demands on the river.

Find out more about Pilotage at the PLA