Paul (Diesel) Dalzell was born and raised in Palmerston North, started his flight training in 2007 at Ardmore after 7.5 years in the Air Force as an aircraft technician.  On completion of his Commercial Pilots Licence in February 2008 Diesel travelled to various countries (US, Australia and Papua New Guinea) following flying jobs.  He then came back to New Zealand, got his Instructor rating, and worked as an Instructor in Ardmore.  After working in Rotorua for Volcanic Air he returned to the Air Force as an Aircraft Technician before deciding it was time to get back in the flying seat which led him to New Zealand Helicopter Training Academy.

Dean is an experienced pilot having flown a large variety of helicopters for more than 30 years throughout New Zealand. Dean does a wide range of commercial work but agricultural flying is his passion and he has a lot of knowledge to pass on to other pilots.

Dean holds a B, D & E Category instructor ratings meaning he can take you through the flight training for your Agricultural Rating and helicopter Type Ratings.