Meet Suijt Kumar Koul our new Maintenance Manager Delhi (DEL)
Can you briefly introduce yourself to colleagues who may not know you?
Hello, I'm Sujit Kumar Koul, your new Maintenance Manager at KLM Delhi. Total aviation experience 35 yrs, I've been with KLM for over 21 years, progressing from mechanic to Station Engineer and now to this role. I believe in hands-on leadership and maintaining open communication with the team to ensure we deliver the highest safety standards.
Where are you from originally, and where do you live now?
I'm originally from Kashmir, where I was born and raised. I moved out for studies and career opportunities, and now live in Gurgaon with my family.
What was your very first job, and what did you learn from it?
My first job was as a Technician with East West Airlines. It was a humble beginning that taught me the fundamentals of aircraft maintenance and the importance of hard work, consistency, and problem-solving - values that have guided my entire career.
How would your friends or family describe you in a few words?
They'd say I'm honest, hardworking, and reliable. Someone who leads by example and always finds solutions to problems, no matter how challenging.
What are you most looking forward to as maintenance manager?
Developing and mentoring the next generation of maintenance professionals, implementing process improvements, and building a strong team culture where everyone feels valued and motivated.
What inspires you most at work?
Knowing that our work directly ensures passenger safety and seeing team members grow in their careers. The aviation industry's continuous evolution also keeps me engaged and learning.
What advice would you give to colleagues who want to build a career within the company?
Stay consistent, keep learning, and help your colleagues. Take on challenges as growth opportunities and maintain the highest safety and quality standards. Success comes from dedication, integrity, and genuine commitment to excellence.
Can you tell us how your journey began at KLM and what does this promotion mean to you?
I joined KLM as a mechanic over 21 years ago and worked my way up through various roles. This promotion represents the trust KLM has in my abilities and gives me the opportunity to mentor others while contributing to our maintenance excellence.
What challenges have you overcome during your time as a ground engineer that are now helping you in your new role?
Managing tight turnaround schedules, solving complex technical issues under pressure while maintaining safety, and coordinating with multiple teams. These experiences taught me efficient decision-making, resource management, and the importance of clear communication - all crucial for my management role.
Looking back, what experience as a ground engineer has prepared you best for this new challenge?
The hands-on troubleshooting experience. Having personally worked on aircraft systems helps me understand what my team faces daily, provide better guidance, and earn their respect through shared experience.
