This is the fourth story in the '#We are Eindhoven Airport' campaign. Every month we publish a story on this page featuring an airport staff member, followed a week later by a podcast created by Summa Aviation Services.

An all-rounder. This is how Dion Vercoulen, Apron Coordinator for handling agent Viggo at Eindhoven Airport, describes himself. The airport apron is his second home. He knows the processes - everything that happens from the moment the plane touches down until it takes off again - like the back of his hand. Dion's role in these processes is essential. Dion: “I prepare the daily schedule and make sure everyone knows what tasks they have, so that everything runs smoothly and we can do the handling safely and within the time.” For example, the marshaller needs to be in position on time to guide the aircraft in, and then the aircraft stairs can be added, passengers can disembark and the hold luggage can be unloaded. The processes follow each other safely and logically. Time is key because the plane generally has to get back into the air after about half an hour.      

Dion is only content when it all goes smoothly on the apron and when the timing, teamwork and planning are right. He gives clarity, overview and makes decisions. “It regularly involves quite a lot of hard work. But I can handle the stress, I maintain focus and stay calm. That's important in my job.” Dion is one of the twelve apron coordinators. He's been working at the airport for about six years, the last three years in his current position. In addition to planning, he also regularly works on the apron himself. He controls one of the electric pushbacks to prepare an aircraft for taxiing, for example, or makes sure the aircraft is connected to the electric Ground Power Unit.  It's a positive step forward that all equipment on the apron will be electric by 2030, he feels. “It means we are contributing to sustainability and that's important.”   

Listen here to the podcast ‘Ready for Take-Off’ of Summa Aviation Services on Spotify or Apple podcast.     #weareeindhovenairport