FOR Antonio Prittipal, a Guyanese-born pilot, flying back home was more than just another day on the job—it was the fulfilment of a dream he had nurtured since he was a teenager.
On Sunday morning, October 6, Prittipal proudly landed a commercial jet at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), checking off a goal that had been on his mind for years.
Born and raised in the small village of Two Brothers, Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara, Prittipal’s journey to the cockpit is a story of perseverance and ambition.

He attended West Demerara Secondary School before migrating to New York at the age of 15 with his family. Despite leaving Guyana, his love for his homeland never faded.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Prittipal shared the joy of returning home as a pilot: “Feels good to be back. Since I started my pilot career, one of my goals was to land at Cheddi Jagan International Airport. I was able to check that off the list yesterday, and it felt great being able to do that.”
He also acknowledged the challenge of the landing, adding, “It is a bit of a tricky runway, but at least everyone knew we arrived in Guyana.”

Prittipal’s excitement was evident as he reflected on how far he had come since his teenage years.
“If only that 15-year-old kid knew that he’d be able to fly a jet back home when we moved to NYC,” he reflected.