Alan originally trained with the R.A.F. based in Canada. After leaving the services he joined what is now British Airways—initially as a navigator before resuming pilot duties. He retired from his commercial flying career as a Boeing 747 Line Instructor Pilot with Singapore Airlines.

After immigrating to the Bay of Islands he joined the Aero Club, and was instrumental in persuading the club to purchase the microlight Tecnam Golf—ZK-NOL. Alan then became one of the Club’s first microlight instructors. He is still active in the Club both with older Club members wanting to maintain their currency, and new Club members embarking on their flying careers.