Richard de Crespigny
RAAF Pilot, Qantas Captain and Crisis Management speaker.
Richard de Crespigny, born and raised in Melbourne, was inspired to pursue a career in flying at the age of fourteen when he visited the RAAF Academy in Victoria with his father. This visit exposed him to impressive aviation facilities, sparking his ambition to become an RAAF Officer and Pilot after earning a university degree.
In 1975, at the age of seventeen, he joined the RAAF and began his flying career a year later. During his eleven-year tenure in the RAAF, he served as Aide-de-Camp to two Australian Governors General, Sir Zelman Cowan and Sir Ninian Stephen.
In 1986, he transitioned to Qantas, initially flying Boeing 747s and later becoming a senior captain on A380 aircraft in 2008.
His most significant challenge came on November fourth, 2010, while he was in command of a Qantas A380 during the Singapore/Sydney leg of flight QF32. One of the engines exploded, causing extensive damage to the aircraft. Richard and his crew, including technical and cabin staff, remained composed during the ordeal, managing to stabilize the aircraft, deal with its overweight configuration, and safely guide it to Changi Airport in Singapore.
Even on the ground, they faced challenges, including a stubborn engine, fuel leakage, and hot brakes. Passengers anxiously remained on board for two hours before disembarking safely. This incident showcased Richard de Crespigny's exceptional skills in teamwork, problem-solving, judgment, and experience, honed through years of training.
Richard's autobiography, "QF32," which narrates this gripping incident, became a best-seller and received accolades, including the Best Non-Fiction award in the 2013 Australian Book Industry Awards. In the 2016 Australia Day Honors, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant contributions to the aviation industry, particularly in flight safety and community service.
Richard de Crespigny has since become a highly sought-after corporate speaker, delivering presentations on crisis management, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork to Fortune 500 companies, the Federal Government, and its various agencies, including defense, safety, and investigation.