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Edgaras Knyzas

Heston Airlines | Head of Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation
KTU alumni

Former workplaces, positions: Helisota – Maintenance Manager for helicopters, Training instructor, Licensed Engineer.

Areas of Expertise and Career Experiences: My professional experience is primarily focused on aircraft maintenance and continuing airworthiness, but over the course of my career, this expertise has expanded significantly. I have had the opportunity to work on complex international aviation projects, certification processes, and business development initiatives.

I have participated in various airline certification and development projects, ranging from the conversion of A330 aircraft for cargo operations and their certification to the implementation of ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operations) requirements. I also contributed to the establishment of a Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO) in Malta and to the certification of an airline in the international IATA registry.

My experience in ACMI operations was particularly valuable, as it encouraged me to look at aviation not only from a technical perspective but also from a broader strategic one. It taught me to think globally, better understand the impact of international politics and geopolitical developments on aviation, identify potential risks at an early stage, and develop effective ways to mitigate them.

I have continuously broadened my professional perspective by participating in international conferences, technical workshops, and aviation exhibitions, including EASA Maintenance Programme Workshops, the Airbus A320 Symposium, the Airbus Maintenance Data Conference, MRO Europe, and MRO Beer. These events provided opportunities not only to keep up with the latest developments in aviation but also to exchange knowledge and experience directly with other industry professionals.

I have also shared my expertise as a speaker at the Predictive Aircraft Maintenance Conference in Dublin, where I presented insights into predictive approaches to aircraft maintenance.

In addition to my practical experience, I have shared my knowledge through professional publications, including an article on the OASES aircraft maintenance management system and practical experience with its use.

Overall, this experience has shaped my view of aviation as a highly interconnected system in which technical expertise, safety, certification, business decisions, the international environment, and the ability to anticipate and manage risks are inseparable.

Strong Personal Qualities: I would describe my strongest personal qualities as honesty, empathy, effectiveness, and leadership.

As an experienced manager in aviation and continuing airworthiness, I have faced and successfully navigated many complex and challenging situations. These experiences have taught me that challenges are not obstacles to avoid, but opportunities to learn, grow, and become better.

I am motivated by the process of finding solutions, taking responsibility, and learning something new along the way. I believe that effective leadership starts with honesty and empathy – understanding people, listening to different perspectives, and building trust – while at the same time having the determination to make decisions and achieve results.

I do not believe in perfection. Instead, I believe in continuous improvement: being a little better today than I was yesterday. This mindset helps me stay resilient when facing difficult situations. Rather than being overwhelmed by challenges, I focus on what can be done, learn from the experience, and keep moving forward.

For me, leadership is ultimately about people, responsibility, and progress – creating an environment where challenges can be turned into opportunities and where both individuals and teams can grow.

My motivation / personal goal for participating in mentoring program: To share knowledge, understand the day-to-day challenges faced by early-career professionals, and help them successfully enter the job market.

Hobbies and other information about me: Investing, travelling, exploring the world, and reading books on personal development.