AviateUnited Aviate Academy
  • Aviate entry points
    • University
    • Flight School
    • Building Experience
    • United Express
    • United Family Program
    • Aviation Professional Organizations
    • Not sure where to start?
    • Ready? Apply now
  • Aspiring to fly
    • United Aviate Academy
    • Youth Programming
  • Resources
    • News and events
    • Success stories
    • Eligibility chart
    • Aviate Program Guide
    • Aviate network
    • Frequently asked questions
    • Contact

< Back to success stories

San Francisco B737 First Officer Dave N. began flying helicopters, now it’s B737s


Dave N.’s pilot journey

Joined Aviate viaUnited Express entry point

Transitioned to United fromCommuteAir

Current roleSFO B737 FO

BaseSan Francisco

Dave began his aviation career flying commercial helicopters around his home country, New Zealand, before pursuing his fixed-wing licenses. He joined CommuteAir, an Aviate-participating United Express carrier, which led him to the Aviate program.

“It’s been an exciting journey as I’ve always wanted to be a United pilot. I now feel like I’m home!” Dave said.

See more Aviate success stories

B737 First Officer Rory realized flying was the career for him through Aviate

B737 First Officer Rory realized flying was the career for him through Aviate

Read their story

Newark A320 First Officer Ameen T.’s love of flight took off with Aviate

Newark A320 First Officer Ameen T.’s love of flight took off with Aviate

Read their story

Newark B737 First Officer M.C. R. used Aviate to go from flight attendant to pilot

Newark B737 First Officer M.C. R. used Aviate to go from flight attendant to pilot

Read their story

United Aviate

Aviate on Instagram

Follow Aviate on Instagram

Subscribe to Aviate

United - A Star Alliance member

Copyright ©2026 United Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy policyCookie preferences.