Fabien Pelous
Where were you born? In Montpelier, in the south of France.
How long have you been in the business? I started in 1996 at Air France as a trainee in Paris, and went on to work for them in London. I’ve been in Canada for 3 years now.
How many people work for you? 100 plus.
What’s the best part of the job? Selling and promoting fantastic Air France and KLM!
What did you want to be as a kid? An architect.
What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? I was at a conference in Stockholm in 2010 when the Icelandic volcano erupted, and had to drive 24 hours nonstop with 4 other guys to get back to London. Yes, it was like a movie.
What’s your favourite airline? I cannot answer this question - it is not politically correct! I must say though it is really great to have 2 brands…they are like my twins.
Do you have a favourite travel app? KLM Shake – shake your device and it will propose the best price to a KLM destination. And Air France Music in the Sky, point your iPhone to the sky and it will download local music.
What do people not know about you? I’m a really nice person behind the boss!
Any hobbies or interests? I love cooking! I try to reproduce restaurant meals.
When were you happiest? The birth of my 3 children.
What skill or talent do you admire in someone? Patience - I’m not patient at all.
What’s your favourite place for a business lunch? Européa and Le Toqué, here in Montreal.
Ever had a brush with fame? I don’t kiss and tell.
What keeps you awake at night? My nightlife is mine!
How do you spend your frequent flyer points? I’m not allowed to have any! But I’m not complaining.
How do you stay fit when you travel? I’m naturally fit because I am so stressed I don’t put a gram on when I travel.
If you could change one thing about the industry what would it be? Increasing airport charges, especially in Canada, they are a killer for the business.
If you could sit next to anyone on a long-haul flight, who would it be? My girlfriend, what a question!
What kind of car do you drive? Mercedes GLK 4x4 and in Paris I have a little Triumph Spitfire. Not an appropriate car for Montreal I’m afraid!
What will be the biggest challenge for the industry in the next 12 months? There is an increasing split between the need to keep fares low and still invest in the quality and the customer wants and deserves.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? I would love to be retired on an island with long hair, even longer than it is now. But unfortunately I think I will still be working!
