Jack Burt serves as the Senior Vice President of Cargo – Americas at Chapman Freeborn, a global air charter solutions leader. With extensive experience in the air cargo industry, Burt oversees operations and strategic initiatives across the Americas, ensuring seamless execution of complex cargo movements.
How did you get into airfreight and logistics?
It runs in my family. My grandfather was a naval aviator, and my father was a pilot, so I grew up surrounded by aviation. I’ve been fortunate enough to log many flying hours and have always had an affinity for aviation. When I was introduced to air cargo logistics, I never looked back.
What quote has most resonated with you?
There are so many great quotes, but I’d say, “Keep on, keep on.” If you’re doing something positive and supportive of others, don’t stop—stay the course.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t stop being yourself. If you have a positive vision and it’s helping others, keep going.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Last year, I biked from London to Paris. This year, I climbed Mount Whitney—the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states of the US. It was 14,500 ft with alpine mountaineering conditions.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be?
Definitely my grandfather, Commander Burt. For others, I’ll have to think about it—there are too many possibilities!
What’s something we wouldn’t know about you from your CV?
My first job was bagging groceries at a local store. I still joke about it whenever I visit the same store decades later.
What hobby have you always wanted to try but never got around to?
Mountaineering—it’s something I’m finally pursuing now. It’s been a lifelong dream, and I’ve started training for it.
If you hadn’t pursued a career in airfreight, what would you have done?
Probably artistry or carpentry.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Telepathy—something like Professor X from X-Men.
What’s your proudest moment and biggest regret?
My proudest moment was helping with airfreight operations during the pandemic. We supported governments worldwide, and it felt amazing to contribute to the health of humanity. As for regrets, I don’t have many.
If there were a movie made about your life, who would play the lead role?
Leonardo DiCaprio.
Looking back over your career, what would you tell someone considering logistics?
Start from the ground up—literally. Begin in a warehouse, maybe as a forklift driver. It’s the best way to understand the foundation of the industry.
What’s the one item you can’t travel without?
A good book. I’ve recently enjoyed This Is It by Alan Watts.
Who is your role model?
My father.
What would your autobiography be called?
That’s a tough one—I’ll have to think about it!
Cats or dogs?
Dogs.
What’s the best and worst purchase you’ve ever made?
The best?
Unique items purchased abroad. I love bringing home something unusual that tells a story. As for the worst, I have no clue—nothing stands out.
What’s your most used emoji?
The smiley face or the sunglasses emoji.