United Airlines pilot chooses Edinburgh for last flight before retirement

An American pilot who chose Edinburgh as the destination of his final round trip before retiring says it was a “deeply personal” choice.

United Airlines Captain Dave Calder flew to the Scottish capital just days before Christmas, bringing a distinguished 28-year career to a close.

Captain Calder said Edinburgh had long been one of his favourite places to fly to – the city connects him to his Scottish roots through his grandfather, who was born in Dumbarton.

He originally joined United Airlines in 1997 as a first-generation pilot in his family – and over nearly three decades, he has flown a wide range of Boeing and Airbus aircraft.

Gordon Robertson, chief communications and sustainability officer at Edinburgh Airport, said: “It’s always great to hear stories of people whose connection to Edinburgh and Scotland is so strong that they want the city to be part of significant moments in their lives, and it was only fitting that we marked Captain Calder’s final journey in and out of the capital – and his distinguished career – with a print of the city.

“We wish him and his family all the very best for the future, and we hope he enjoys a long and happy retirement, spending that all-important time with his loved ones.”

Captain Calder operated mainly from United’s hubs in Chicago, Washington Dulles and most recently New York and Newark.

Dave Weiselberg, chief pilot for United out of Newark Liberty International Airport, said: “We extend our sincere thanks to Captain Calder for the outstanding service and dedication he has shown during his 28 years of flying the friendly skies with United Airlines, and we wish him all the best for the next chapter of his journey.

“It is especially fitting that Captain Calder chose Edinburgh for his final roundtrip, a city United has proudly served for over two decades and where we now offer the only year-round service to the U.S.”