As a Pilot, there are sometimes things outside of your control that can derail your career. While flying for Republic Airways, John DiMarzio was injured, leaving him grounded and putting his plans on hold. With support from Republic, John was able to get back on track by transitioning to a Base Chief Pilot position.
“If you ask a Pilot how they got into aviation, you’re going to hear a love story,” John explains. “For me, it’s no different. Since I was a kid, I was always looking up when I heard aircraft overhead. I would run all around and tell my mom that I was going to fly someday.”
John followed his passion to college, where he graduated with a degree in Aviation Sciences and, while flight instructing and building hours, began looking for the right airline. “Being from New England, Republic Airways has a reputation as the Northeast regional,” says John. “When I interviewed with Republic, it felt different. Everyone was friendly. Everyone was happy to work there. It never felt forced.”
John started as a First Officer based in LaGuardia, and after a few months, he made his way to Boston to be closer to home. “Every single day was exciting,” John says. “Being a Pilot is a dream job.”
An injury interrupted John’s path in aviation. “It was devastating being told I couldn’t fly,” he remembers. “Not only did I lose my livelihood, I’d lost my dream.” John was told he’d be grounded for about a year. “I was upset for a couple of days, but then you just have to figure it out,” John says. He spent time working with his family in their businesses and focusing on his physical health.
“Through it all, never once did I think that my time flying was over,” says John. “No matter how hard I had to work, no matter what I had to do, I knew I was going to be back. Thankfully, Republic helped me get there.”
It was a connection John made at Republic that unlocked the door for him. “I was interviewing to be a substitute teacher in my hometown, and I texted my then-Base Chief Pilot for a reference,” he explains. “She called me back immediately and said, ‘I’m happy to give you a reference, but the Boston Base Chief Pilot job will be opening up.'” Things moved quickly from there.
“It’s funny how these things work. When I was a Line Pilot, I didn’t utilize the Base Chief Pilot’s office enough. I didn’t realize just how important the Base Chief Pilots are as a resource and a support system,” says John. By opening that clear line of communication with his Base Chief Pilot after his injury, John was able to make a connection that brought him back to Republic.
It’s those same connections that John is now fostering as a Base Chief Pilot himself. “I get to see our operations through 2,000 sets of eyes,” he says. “It’s my job to show all of them the support I received professionally and personally.”
The same culture of excitement and support that drew John to Republic is now what he instills every day. “When you’re out flying, the people with you become your family. It’s crucial for crews to work as a team,” John says. “The worst trip with a great crew doesn’t feel so bad — and at Republic, we’ve got the best crews in the industry. Everyone is eager to help, easy to talk to and invested in each other’s success.”
John is hoping to be medically cleared to fly in summer 2025, but for now, he’s more than happy with his role as Base Chief Pilot. “I never thought I’d be flying a desk,” laughs John, “but I’m enjoying my role in supporting our Pilots.”
Learn more about how you can join an airline that puts people first right here.