I was an Emirates captain for over 4 years, joined the company in 2012. I joined API Emirates Pilot Loss of Income Protection Scheme when I first heard about it. I thought I had a healthy lifestyle, I was actively doing sports, I would most probably not need it, but yes, why not.
The accident: In April, 2016 I was doing a preflight walk-around under the wing of a 777, when a single container truck ran me over. Due to my martial art background I am experienced how to “fall and protect”, but it was not enough this time. The truck hit my head, I fell and I laid unconscious on the tarmac. The accident resulted in a multiple skull fracture, brain contusion and hemorrhage. They took me to ICU then I spent a few weeks in hospital and undergone a long rehabilitation process. It was a naughty one, but I luckily got off with no paralysis or functional deficiency.
The outcome: 8 months later GCAA Medical Board has revoked my medical certificate and Emirates terminated my contract. A long administration process started and to be fair with the company, Emirates was supportive, correctly payed the relevant benefits in line with their Employee Handbook and ERM.
Claim submitted towards API as well. They have an independent medical expert team in the US, all my medical records were submitted (over 200 pages) to them. It took 3 months to wait for the decision of API Trust.
I called the API Administrators and Committee a few times, during the claim process. Garrie and Peter always responded courteously and with professionalism, I received positive support during the waiting period. Once the claim was accepted, API correctly payed backdated to the eligibility date and I am receiving the monthly benefits correctly.
Dear fellow colleagues,
My case has a lucky outcome medically, but it destroyed a career, a lifestyle and it affected a family life. API benefits now keeps us financially stable, assists us establishing a completely different life.
Thank You API, the Administrator Team and to all fellow pilots contributes the the Plan. I truly recommend API as a good institution to all pilots who plan to protect themselves against loss of income.
The unexpected can happen to anyone, anytime.
With appreciation,