We learned
this evening the death of André Dillien. We are all orphan. André started his
career in aviation after WW2 as a radio telegraphist at the Brussels airport. He
was from modest origin but he progressed and his permanent learning capability
was an example for all of us. He worked for the Belgian civil authorities in
Belgium and Congo reaching the position of number 2 of the civil aviation
authorities in Congo after the independence. He flew aircraft as DC-4, DC-6, DH
Heron. At a certain, he needed to have 2 suitcases to store all his logbooks,
licences and diplomas. He later worked for OACI being the regional head for
Africa and Asia helping local civil dept. A few years before his retirement, he
came back in Belgium and worked on the Brucargo project.
It was no
questions of retirement for André, he maintained civil register lists updated
every months and published booklets every quarters (Air Info). He shared his
registers freely with anyone interested. He developed radio procedures trainings
for future pilots. So, he was a significant
aviation evangelist having a deep influence for the Belgian aeronautical
community.
André was
also a dedicated director with the Vieilles Tiges of Belgium until recently, a
regular contributor (and a reference) for Air Britain and a volunteer at the
Brussels Air Museum since the origin of the Museum.
Our deepest
condolences to the family and friends of André.
Perpetuate
his spirit and dedication is a the next frontier for all of us.
www.belgianaviationnews.be
