Bruce Dickinson Shares How We Got Ripped Off While Making Music

Music legend Bruce Dickinson, the iconic frontman of Iron Maiden, is known for his soaring vocals and electrifying stage presence. But beyond the rock and roll, Dickinson has ventured into the world of business, specifically with his airplane repair company, Caerdav.

However, his journey with Caerdav wasn’t all smooth sailing. In a recent interview, Dickinson revealed a surprising truth: while busy on the road with Iron Maiden, he was being taken advantage of, causing Caerdav to become a significant financial drain.

This revelation sheds light on the challenges faced by even the most successful musicians. Balancing a demanding music career with business ventures can be tricky, and Dickinson’s experience serves as a cautionary tale.

But the story doesn’t end there. Determined to turn things around, Dickinson took a more hands-on approach with Caerdav, and the results have been impressive.

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No More Flying for the Iron Maiden Frontman

Iron Maiden fans might associate Bruce with high-octane performances and soaring vocals, but for over a decade, he also took the pilot’s seat for a very different kind of flight.

Dickinson captained Ed Force One, the band’s customized Boeing 747, transporting the crew and equipment across the globe during tours. However, in January 2022, he made the decision to step down.

This wasn’t just about Ed Force One. Dickinson recently revealed in an interview with Record Collector that he’s given up flying altogether. The decision stemmed from a shift in priorities.  “I don’t want to make Leana [Dolci, his wife] a widow before her time,” he stated.

Dickinson acknowledges that his risk tolerance has changed, especially considering the responsibility he has towards his loved ones.

Bruce Dickinson Takes on a New Role

While Dickinson stepped away from flying commercially in 2022, his passion for aviation remained. In January 2024, he revealed a shift in gears within the industry.

Dickinson opted to become a trainer, focusing on ground school instruction and serving as the chief technical pilot for Boeing 757 and 737 models. This transition allowed him to share his knowledge and experience with aspiring pilots.

The new role offered a stimulating learning environment for Dickinson. He enjoyed the constant engagement and intellectual challenge. However, he observed a clear divide among his trainees.

Some pilots thrived on routine and stability, finding comfort in the predictability of the job. Others, like Dickinson himself, yearned for a more dynamic career path.