What’s happening?
Redlands resident and retired pilot Allan Ashton celebrated his 99th birthday last week, reflecting on a remarkable life spent both in the air and on the ground. From flying Douglas DC-3 aircraft to dining with Colonel Sanders, Allan’s journey has spanned continents, careers, and historic moments. Now, he and his wife Marion enjoy their retirement with support from Carinity Home Care.
Why it matters?
Allan’s story highlights a lifetime of adventure, resilience, and dedication. From working in the aviation industry to relocating across the globe for his family’s safety, his experiences provide a fascinating glimpse into history. His continued independence at 99, supported by in-home care, underscores the value of aged care services in maintaining quality of life.
Local Impact
As a long-time Queensland resident, Allan contributed to the regional aviation industry, helping to connect communities through Bush Pilots–Air Australia. Now, in his later years, his story serves as an inspiration for locals and a testament to the support available through services like Carinity Home Care.
By the Numbers
- 99 years – Allan celebrated his 99th birthday last week, having been born in 1926 in Newcastle, NSW.
- 10 emergency landings – Allan safely landed his aircraft on all occasions despite engine failures.
- One flight as a passenger – Since retiring from aviation in 1986, Allan has only flown commercially once.
Zoom In
Allan’s aviation career took off later in life. While he flew recreationally as a young man, it wasn’t until his 40s that he became a commercial pilot. Living in Cairns and Longreach, he flew regional routes for Bush Pilots–Air Australia, facing multiple emergency landings but always bringing his passengers home safely.
Reflecting on his career, Allan recalls that “on ten occasions the Douglas DC-3 planes I flew suffered engine failures, yet I was able to expertly land all the aircraft safely.”
Before his career in aviation, Allan worked as an electrical fitter for BHP in Newcastle, later moving to Canada to oversee a manufacturing company. However, the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 prompted the Ashtons to return to Australia, leading to a pivotal career shift for Allan.
His experiences were not limited to the skies. While travelling across the United States before returning to Queensland, Allan dined with Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, who tried to convince him to open a franchise in Australia. Amusingly, Allan recalls, “he didn’t have chicken for his meal – rather he ate fish!”
Zoom Out
Allan’s love for aviation influenced the next generation, with one of his daughters becoming a flight hostess for airlines such as QANTAS. His journey also reflects the shifts in Queensland’s aviation history, from the era of small regional airlines to today’s large commercial carriers.
Now residing in Redlands, Allan and Marion receive in-home care through Carinity Home Care, which supports their independence. Marion also enjoys weekly shopping outings with her personal lifestyle carer, a testament to how aged care services enhance the lives of seniors.
What to Look For Next?
As Allan approaches his milestone 100th birthday, his life continues to be a story of resilience and adventure. With his remarkable past and a support system ensuring his comfort, Allan remains high on life—just as he was in the skies.
