Ioannis D. Kakolyris

Ioannis Dim. Kakolyris, originally from Zakynthos and Halki of the Princes' Islands, was born in Athens. After completing his secondary education, he was admitted to the Higher School of the Hellenic Air Force, where, following his graduation, he served for several years in combat aircraft squadrons until his early retirement during the junta period. Immediately afterward (1972), he was hired by Olympic Airways and, after a series of training sessions both domestically and abroad, he received a Public Transport Aircraft Cockpit Crew License from the Civil Aviation Authority. At Olympic Airways, he flew Boeing B-720, B-707, B-747, and Airbus A-300 aircraft as a pilot, instructor, and flight examiner, alongside additional duties as the head of the Technical Support Service for the company's fleet. He retired for health reasons in 2001, having completed 15,000 flight hours. In 1990, he emerged as a historical author, and since 1992, the Society of Greek Writers (E.E.L.), recognizing his literary work, included him among its members. In 1999, he was elected President of its Disciplinary Council until 2006, when he was elected Vice President of its Administrative Council.