Pilot Steven Biggs returned to Liberia after a four-year absence, now a Training Captain. More than reconnecting, his visit was an outworking of his current mentoring role in multiple MAF operations around the world.
When Steven Biggs stepped off the plane in Monrovia, it wasn’t just a return to familiar skies, it was a homecoming.
“It feels wonderful to be back,” he said. “We were here for four years, and it’s special to reconnect with so many friends who became like family,” said Steven Biggs.
Now based in Mareeba, Australia, Steven serves as a Training Captain with MAF International, mentoring new pilots across programmes worldwide. His return to Liberia was both sentimental and strategic, aimed at better understanding the programme’s transition under the FAA system.
It feels wonderful to be back, we were here for four years, and it’s special to reconnect with so many friends who became like family.
“This visit is to help me gain context especially around the work being done here, including IFR flying under the FAA system,” he explained. “That way, I can implement what I’ve learned into our programmes in Arnhem Land and Timor-Leste, where I’m currently serving.”
Steven’s visit came at a time of growth for MAF Liberia.
“There’s certainly a lot of new faces, which is exciting. The team is growing, and that's always a good sign. The new staff seem fantastic, and the programme is thriving.”
But for Steven, the heart of his mission goes beyond flight training.
“That’s my favourite part of the job,” he said. “I love sitting in the right seat of the aircraft to give training, but more than that, I love doing life with the pilots – praying with them, encouraging them. These pilots are giving up so much to serve in remote areas.”
Through hands-on mentorship, he’s helping build confidence and resilience in pilots navigating complex flying environments like tropical Australia’s wet season and Papua New Guinea’s rugged terrain.
“My goal is to help them develop strong decision-making skills for dynamic flying environments. Many new pilots come straight out of training with limited real-world experience... It’s exciting to see how those foundational skills help them handle challenges.”
During his visit, Steven joined pilot Ed Burrows for flights to Harper and Grand Cess, reconnecting with ground staff along the way.
“Liberia can be a challenging place to live, but the people make it such a joy. I really miss that.”
During his visit, Steven joined pilot Ed Burrows for flights to Harper and Grand Cess, reconnecting with ground staff along the way.
Reflecting on his experiences, Steven emphasised the deeper impact of MAF’s mission.
“Watching them grow and thrive in their roles is deeply rewarding. Not only in Liberia, but across all MAF programmes I’ve visited, I see how pilots and engineers go beyond flying – they get involved with communities, with local churches, with missionaries. That deeper engagement is what makes MAF so special.”
As his visit wrapped up, he shared a heartfelt message.
“It’s a real privilege to come back. Margot and I will continue praying for you all, and I hope to return for another visit very soon.”