Meet the PLA's new trainee pilots

We’re pleased to welcome our latest intake of trainee marine pilots David Mills and Axel Schaipp to the PLA. Together they bring valuable seafaring experience, proven skills, and a real enthusiasm for working on the water. The Thames is among the most demanding pilotage environments anywhere, and we’re confident they will meet the challenge.

We wish them every success as they begin their training and look forward to seeing them progress in their new roles.

David Mills

David has built a career spanning oil, gas and container shipping, before moving into cruise ships and superyachts for the latter part of his time at sea.

His interest in ship handling and navigation made pilotage a natural progression, and he is particularly drawn to the Thames for its variety and challenges as a working river. David looks forward to learning the river in depth and to the ongoing professional development the role offers.

Away from work, his interests include watching rugby, riding motorbikes and sailing.

Axel Schaipp

Originating from Germany, Axel’s career began with six months as a trainee on a square rigger while still at school, followed by two years in the German Navy as a reserve officer. He went on to earn a BSc degree in Plymouth and completed a cadetship with CMA CGM, later sailing as a 3rd Officer with the company. His career path has since taken him back to square riggers, through chief mate and master qualifications, and into the windfarm sector. Over time he progressed from Master 500 to Master 3000, and eventually to Master Unlimited, combining command experience in both sail and offshore operations.

Axel’s motivation to become a pilot comes from his enjoyment of vessel manoeuvring and the challenge of handling a wide variety of ships. The role also allows him to be closer to family, something he greatly values.

In his free time, Axel enjoys Historical European Martial Arts, horse riding and sailing small boats.