Bert’s journey began in the Dutch East Indies and New Guinea, where he spent his early childhood as the son of a government accountant. After completing his secondary education at HBS in The Hague, he pursued maritime studies at the Maritime Academy in Amsterdam and embarked on his first career as a deck officer with the Royal Dutch Steamship Company, sailing to Central and South America. His seafaring experience exempted him from military service, but in 1962 he set his sights on a new frontier: aviation.

 

He joined the Royal Netherlands Navy’s Aviation Service, training first on the Beechcraft T-7 Navigator before serving as a navigator/observer on the Grumman S-2F Tracker aboard the aircraft carrier Hr. Ms. Karel Doorman. Bert later qualified as a jetfighter pilot and went on to clock 3,000 flying hours, including time on Cessna Citation jets. He married Tilly in 1964, and together they raised two daughters.

 

Civil Aviation Leadership

Transitioning to civil aviation, Bert played a key role in internationalising Dutch aviation operations and adopting cutting-edge developments, including CAT III automatic landings, satellite navigation, instrument flight procedures, and the transport of dangerous goods. His distinguished civil service career culminated as deputy director of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Netherlands.

 

The Birth of AviAssist

In 1995, Bert’s determination to make safety promotion affordable and sustainable for African nations led to the creation of the AviAssist Foundation. Working alongside ICAO Director General Lot Mollel from Tanzania, he championed Euro-African collaboration to strengthen safety infrastructure in Tanzania. What began as a single project evolved into an independent non-profit organisation dedicated to accessible, high-quality safety promotion across Africa.

 

Bert ensured AviAssist worked closely with ICAO and international stakeholders, creating a model of partnership and knowledge-sharing that continues to improve aviation safety across the continent.

 

A Life of Service and Connection

Even after formal retirement at 65, Bert continued as an aviation consultant for another 15 years, remaining active in the Netherlands and abroad. His passion for technology, navigation, and safety never waned. Known for his operational insight, gentle voice, and inspiring humour, Bert was a mentor to many in the aviation world — a man who combined expertise with generosity of spirit.

 

Bert Kraan’s life was one of adventure, service, and enduring impact. He will be deeply missed by colleagues, friends, and the AviAssist family, to whom he was a guiding figure.

 

Condolences and memories may be shared via inmemoriam@aviassist.org, with the option to pass messages to his wife and daughters, who would greatly appreciate the support. Bert’s burial service will be held on 7 August in the Netherlands.

 

Rest in peace, Bert.