Alumna Lindsey Boosten: ‘Aviation is a great sector to work in’
Lindsey Boosten followed her passion by combining the study of aviation and law in the Advanced Master in Air and Space Law in Leiden. It turned out to be a great choice: ‘It was one of the best years from my student days.’
You studied at universities in Hasselt, Leuven and Lausanne. So, what brought you to Leiden?
I’d already done a master’s degree in International and European Law in Belgium, but I felt I wanted to combine my passion for aviation with my background in law. For some time, I’d dreamt of delving further into air law. Worldwide, there’s not a lot on offer in this field in terms of education. The Advanced Master programme in Leiden and the Institute of Air and Space Law have a good international reputation. The location was also an added bonus, being relatively close to Belgium.
You followed an Advanced Master here. How different is it to a regular master’s?
The groups are much smaller, so you’re not just a number. Another big advantage is that you’re in a class with people who are equally motivated and who share your passion for air and space law. Not only that, the classes are given by experts from the professional field. As a result, the programme is more focussed on current issues and is practice-oriented.
What I found really unique was the internship. I think you learn the most in that time when you can apply the theory in practice. Also, the programme’s not just all about studying. There are lots of opportunities to build a network within the discipline. Conferences and symposia are frequently organised where you can speak to alumni, professors and professionals from the sector. It all helps to get your career underway.
You’ve now had various positions within the aviation sector. Have you always been passionate about it?
My love of aviation started in 2017, when I had a student job as a cabin crew member working for the tourism group TUI. Over the next five years, I worked every summer and holiday periods as a full member of the cabin crew. I loved this so much, I ended up looking for a way to combine it with my law studies. The degree programme in Leiden proved to be a good match: it was, without doubt, one of the best years from my student days.
Can you tell us about your current job?
After graduating, I started at Brussels Airlines in September 2023 as a management trainee. Finding a job straight away in the legal field in the air and space sector can be quite hard. In January 2024, I was fortunate enough to be able to make the switch to a position as legal counsel. I’m now part of the legal affairs team where we’re involved, basically, in almost all legal aspects within the company. From assessing contracts for aircraft maintenance to analysing flight cancellations or delays and offering legal advice about them.
What’s the most interesting part of your job?
I enjoy many things, but what I really like is the interaction with colleagues from other departments. Checking contracts is often done from behind a computer, but for things like flight delays or cancellations, we have to consult with the customer relations team. They’re in direct contact with passengers. Together, we look for a fitting response considering the legal aspects. That social side to my job, working with colleagues, makes it even more interesting for me.
Aviation is also a great sector to work in. It’s very open and social. I always say: ‘once you’re a part of it, you won’t want to leave.’ It’s got a certain pulling power that’s hard to explain. So, it’s clear to me: I definitely want to keep working in this sector in the future.
What’s your best memory from your time in Leiden?
Something I’ll always remember is the day I graduated. There you are, together with your fellow students, having made it to the finish line. Throwing your cap in the air and making your way to the Zweetkamertje (Sweat Room). That’s a really special moment. Let’s be honest: entering the Zweetkamertje and adding your signature or name to the wall, that’s a moment all Leiden students look forward to.
Any advice for our current students?
The most important thing is to enjoy this time as the year will just fly past. Have fun and join in all the activities organised for you. It can sometimes be a bit daunting, but these are moments you’ll always remember. For the students who are thinking of a career in the aviation or space sector: don’t worry if you don’t get your dream job straight away. Have patience, keep building your network and gaining experience, and things will turn out fine.