Henderson was aware of issues with Mr Ibbotson’s ability'
The court heard Mr Ibbotson flew for Henderson from June 2018, but they had known each other for longer.
On June 11, 2018, Mr Ibbotson asked Henderson if he needed a class rating to fly the Malibu plane, and the defendant said he would call him later.
It is claimed Henderson was aware of issues with Mr Ibbotson’s ability, having received a text message on July 3, 2018, which said: “The Ibbotson experience was interesting! He was all over the place. Had to help him out coming into White Waltham.”
Messages between Henderson and Mr Ibbotson also highlighted issues with the latter’s performance. These took place on July 6, 2018.
Ibbotson: “Where we going with this Dave, if you’re not going to use me anymore fair enough, but please have the common decency to pay what I am owed.”
Henderson: “I am just responding to emails from Fay who has forwarded me two letters from CAA. I have always said the flying we do is challenging and everyone has to be on the ball. It is a steep learning curve for someone new to the operation. The prerequisite is a willingness to listen and learn. We both have an opportunity to make money out of the business model but not if we upset clients or draw the attention of the CAA…. As self-employed sole traders we both have debtors and creditors and surely you understand that to remain legal we can’t take money in advance.”
In another message exchange on August 14, Henderson asked Mr Ibbotson about his abilities at flying at night.
Henderson: “Can you fly at night?”
Ibbotson: “… is it ok imc go vfr on top? In France.”
Henderson: “Who’s gonna know.”
Ibbotson: “Yes you’re right.”Ibbotson adds: “… better get my night rating ASAP.’
On October 27, the following message exchange took place.
Henderson: “‘Night flying will be the norm now. You need your night and IMC ratings…. Can you get your night rating to make it all official?”
Ibbotson: “‘Don’t think it will be possible before next week will ask Tony Hather, but I’m short of money after my trip to Australia. I was going to do it next month….. Just contacted Tony H 5 hours flight time @£150 per hour”
Henderson: “Essential investment”
On December 22, Mr Ibbotson said: “Won’t got to get night rating first”
Henderson responded: “Crack on”
Who's gonna know
Double wow