Aviation Management Career Paths

Aviation Management Career Paths

Aviation management offers a variety of rewarding career paths for professionals who want to work behind the scenes to keep flight operations running smoothly. These roles span leadership, logistics, compliance, and customer service responsibilities.

Common Career Tracks

• Director of Aviation: Oversees all facets of a flight department, from safety to budgeting to personnel.
• Chief Pilot: Manages pilot hiring, training, scheduling, and flight standards.
• Scheduler/Dispatcher: Coordinates flights, crew assignments, and trip logistics.
• Safety Manager: Ensures compliance with FAA and company safety regulations, develops SMS programs.
• Maintenance Manager: Oversees aircraft maintenance schedules, vendors, and airworthiness tracking.

Most of these positions require prior aviation experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of FAA regulations. Leadership experience and industry certifications like CAM (Certified Aviation Manager) can also set candidates apart.