Where
were you born?
In
Las Vegas – my dad was an airline man working for, at the time, Bonanza
Airlines. He went on to found America West Airlines.
Beauvais
sounds very French – do you have a French background?
Only back to the 1600s when my
ancestors emigrated to Canada. Generations ago they moved to the States, so
sadly I don’t speak French.
How long
have you been in the business?
All my working life, starting on the ramp at the airport and in res
at America West when I was in college. I’ve also worked promoting Australian
attractions such as the Ghan train.
How many
people work for you?
Approximately
1,650 in Canada.
What’s
the best part of the job?
Travel - I love travel!
What did
you want to be as a kid?
A professional baseball player.
What was
your 1
st job? As I mentioned, in res and throwing bags on the ramp. Or should I say,
placing them gently in the baggage hold. (
Laughs.)
What’s
the scariest thing you’ve ever done?
Crashed while skiing very fast. Luckily no
damage – but it was very scary.
Any
guilty pleasures?
Once
in a while, too much tequila.
What’s
your favourite airline?
This could get me in a lot of hot water! (Laughs) I’ll say Air
Canada.
Favourite
hotel?
Right now,
Fairmont Pacific Rim. It’s beautiful.
Any
hobbies or interests?
I’m a film buff. I love watching movies on an overseas flight.
What skill or talent do you admire in someone? The ability to be a good karaoke
singer.
Is there anything you won’t eat? I stay away from bugs and that sort
of thing.
What’s at the top of your bucket list? The Greek Islands.
Ever had a brush with fame? Living in NYC or L.A., sure. Lots.
No one in particular.
What keeps you awake at night? The people who do terrible things to
other people.
How do
you spend your frequent flyer points?
Give them to friends and family.
What is
your greatest extravagance?
Champagne, undoubtedly. Only Champagne will do!
How do
you stay fit when you travel?
Dance the night away.
If you
could sit next to anyone on a long-haul flight, who would it be?
Steve Jobs.
Do you
have a favourite charity?
Make a Wish.
How
would you characterize the Canadian traveller vs. the American one?
Canadians are more intrepid, they
enjoy longer holidays and will travel to a wider range of destinations and
stretch the budget further. Americans, not wishing to generalize, like shorter
holidays and to very popular destinations.
What
will be the biggest challenge for the industry in the next 12 months?
The oil and gas industry and the
ripple effect through the economy.
What do
you hope to be doing in 10 years?
Having a really great retirement party. With a karaoke machine
there? You know it!
