The Experts Corner
Spinning Through Life: In the Loop with Tommy Douillard
Alright, we’ll admit it, the title might be a little cringy, but it’s hard not to lean into a bit of aerobatic wordplay when talking about a pilot like Tommy Douillard!
Boutsen Aviation has proudly supported Tommy for several years, sharing in his journey as a top-level aerobatic pilot. Today, we take a new dive into how he’s been, what’s been keeping him busy, and the latest in his world of aerobatics. It’s hard to believe that nearly three years have passed since our last conversation with the Aerobatics World Champion, much has happened since!
First things first, for those who don’t know yet, how did you and Boutsen Aviation first cross paths, and what sparked the beginning of our sponsorship story?
I met Boutsen Aviation at a pivotal moment in my career, when my aerobatic results were starting to gain recognition within the aviation community. That’s when I met Dominique Trinquet. We are both pilots, so the conversation naturally started around our shared passion. Dominique is both an outstanding executive and an exceptional pilot, particularly thanks to his experience on fighter jets like the L-39. We connected immediately!
On his side, he was looking for a pilot who embodies performance, precision, and passion. On my side, I was looking for a partner who shares values of excellence and professionalism, exactly what Boutsen Aviation represents. That’s how the story began: a collaboration built on trust, a passion for flying, and a shared vision of high-level aviation.
What was it that drew you to aerobatics in the first place: the freedom of flight, the thrill, or something else entirely?
Aviation has been part of my life since I was very young: my father and grandfather were true passionates, and I started flying model aircraft at the age of six! I was attracted to aerobatics because of its unique blend of precision, aesthetics, and total control of the machine: something truly fascinating. It’s not just about adrenaline. It’s a way of expressing yourself, almost like an art form.
Many people can’t imagine a life without stability. Have you ever considered a “quieter,” more grounded career, or has adrenaline always been part of the plan?
I’ve always believed that some people are simply not meant to fit into predefined boxes… and I’m one of them.
Adrenaline has never been an objective, but I’ve always been drawn to demanding disciplines. At just 14, I was already reaching podiums in model aircraft competitions, where precision is key.
I did consider a more traditional career in aviation. I even studied in that field, but I quickly realized that my place would be in a cockpit.
Today, I’ve found a real balance: a “conventional” career on one side, and a high-level sporting career on the other.
Aerobatics brings together everything I’m passionate about: technique, commitment, and intensity.
You started young and have achieved so much already. Did you ever feel like you had to prove yourself more because of your age?
Yes, of course.
When you get your license at 19 and quickly enter the environment of the French National Team, you must prove that you belong there.
But for me, that pressure has always been a driving force. It pushed me to work harder, to improve faster… until I won the world championship in 2023.
In your own words, what does flying tell you that everyday life doesn’t?
Aerobatics gives me structure, discipline, and a clear objective.
It’s a sport that demands incredible rigor, and those values carry into everything I do.
It has also allowed me to meet inspiring and fascinating people like Dominique and many others, which really broadens your perspective.
Flying offers something nothing else can: mastery of space. On the ground, everything happens on a horizontal plane. In the air, everything becomes three-dimensional. It’s an immense freedom, but also a great responsibility.
Aerobatics constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone. This exploration of oneself, both mentally and physically, is extremely rewarding.
How do you unwind after a high-intensity practice or competition? Do you have any rituals or hobbies that help you decompress?
After a demanding flight, I first take a quiet moment to reset, then I go through a technical debrief.
After that, I like to return to simple things: running, spending time with friends, tinkering, or thinking about future projects.
And I do have a small, funny ritual: I always have a piece of chewing gum during a flight (which I’ve never swallowed!!).
Speaking of hobbies: when you’re not flying upside down at 200+ knots, what else do you genuinely enjoy doing?
I’m a simple person.
I enjoy running in the forest, spending time in nature, going for motorcycle rides, and above all, being with genuine people.
That’s what helps me recharge the most.
If you could pick another profession, completely unrelated to aviation, what would it be?
A Formula 1 driver.
You are also very engaged in environmental issues. Some might see a contradiction between aviation and sustainability. How do you reconcile your passion for flying with your concern for the planet?
It’s often a misunderstood topic.
However, aviation has long been one of the most committed industries when it comes to reducing its impact: lighter structures, aerodynamic optimization, reduced fuel consumption…
Aerobatics is also evolving: 100% electric aircraft are currently being certified.
Technology is advancing quickly, and a high-performance yet responsible aviation is absolutely possible.
Have you ever had a moment in your flying career, a close call, a breakthrough, or even a failure, that completely changed your approach or mindset?
There are two: the day I lost… and the day I won the world championships.
But it’s failure that had the biggest impact on me.
It forced me to question myself, to rethink my methods, and to evolve.
And it’s precisely that process that allowed me to become world champion a few years later.
Failure is essential, no one succeeds without experiencing it.
What’s a misconception most people have about aerobatics that you wish they understood better?
That it’s a “crazy” sport based purely on adrenaline.
In reality, it’s one of the most technical, methodical, and regulated motorsports that exists.
Looking forward, what are the next big challenges or goals on your horizon: competitive, personal, or otherwise?
I want to share my journey and show that no one is defined by their background, their difficulties, or their failures.
Among my projects, I would love to acquire my own aircraft so I can fly ill children, or children with disabilities, or people who don’t have the same opportunities as we do.
My greatest joy is bringing joy to others.
If Boutsen Aviation were to host an aerobatic event in Monaco someday, would you be on the lineup?
I don’t own an aircraft yet, as I share a club aircraft, and I’m also limited by very strict regulations regarding aerobatic flying outside designated areas.
But in theory, of course! Boutsen Aviation is a partner I deeply respect.
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Dear Tommy,
Thank you for giving us this insight into your world, your mindset, and your ambition. It is a true privilege for Boutsen Aviation to support a talent who so perfectly embodies pour shared values of excellence, discipline, and passion.
We wish you continued success and look forward to following your achievements in the seasons ahead!