What profession immediately springs to mind when you think about careers in the aviation industry? Is it a pilot, an aircraft mechanic, cabin crew, or perhaps a flight dispatcher? While these roles are certainly well-known, the aviation field offers many other rewarding career paths that are crucial for the smooth operation of airlines, maintenance organizations, and airports. In this article, we will explore the role of an aviation manager, who is a key player in ensuring efficiency, and profitability within the industry. This guide will cover their responsibilities, potential workplaces, required qualifications, and steps to becoming an aviation manager.
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What do aviation managers do?
Aviation managers have a diverse set of responsibilities that vary depending on their specific role within the industry. Some may focus on planning flight schedules, executing operational procedures, and managing the company’s budget. Others may focus on ensuring regulatory compliance, scheduling inspections, writing reports on aircraft incidents, or anything else that contributes to the smooth operation of an aviation company.
Wondering what their main daily tasks typically involve? Here are a few categories to explore:
Operations management. One of the primary duties of an aviation manager is to ensure that flights or aircraft maintenance run on schedule. They also make sure that resources are utilized efficiently and that safety regulations are strictly followed.
Financial management. Aviation managers take charge of financial management, which includes budgeting and financial forecasting. They analyze operating costs, revenue streams, and profitability of the company.
Personnel management. Aviation managers are also responsible for hiring, training, and managing personnel. They must ensure that all employees meet the certification and safety standards set by international aviation authorities and the company.
Strategic planning. Senior executive-level aviation managers focus on forging long-term strategic partnerships with other aviation organizations and authorities. They develop plans to enhance the company’s efficiency and expand its services.
Ensuring regulatory compliance. Aviation managers also focus on regulatory compliance, ensuring that their organization adheres to federal and international aviation regulations while maintaining safety and operational standards.
Customer service. Aviation managers often interact directly with customers, addressing complaints and
Where can aviation managers work?
Aviation managers have various career opportunities in the industry. Two of the most common workplaces include airlines and airports. Airline managers are mainly focused on the operational aspects of the airline, including flight scheduling, ticketing, customer service, and aircraft fleet management. Their main goal is to improve efficiency and profitability while enhancing the level of passenger experience.
In the meantime, airport managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an airport, focusing on areas like safety, security, maintenance, and staff management.
However, there are many other businesses where aviation managers can make a significant impact. Take aviation consulting firms, for example. Here, managers share their expertise on improving operational efficiency. They also play a crucial role in aircraft maintenance organizations, ground handling or air freight services providers. And let’s not forget about the aviation authorities. Safety agencies, civil aviation authorities, and international regulatory bodies like EASA, FAA, or ICAO all rely on aviation managers. So, if you are considering this career path, you will find your place.
What do you need to become an aviation manager?
Education level requirements
Wondering how to start your career in aviation? Becoming an aviation manager typically requires a blend of education, experience, skills, and key personal skills. Due to the educational demands of the role, most candidates become aviation managers in their mid to late 20s, despite there being no specific age requirements.
So, what educational qualifications are typically required for the role of an aviation manager? Most aviation management roles typically require a minimum of bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, aerospace engineering or a related field. However, in addition to a bachelor’s degree, some employers may require aviation managers to hold a master’s degree in transport management, logistics, or aviation law.
Experience requirements
Gaining practical experience in the aviation industry is one of the key steppingstones to becoming an aviation manager. Whether you have spent time in flight operations, airport operations, or e customer service, each of these roles builds the experience needed to thrive in this field. For instance, if you have worked as a pilot or in flight operations, your experience would bring great value if you decide to pursue a role as an aviation manager within an airline. Similarly, working in an airport setting would give you crucial expertise in airport operations.
However, it is important to note that most aviation manager positions in Europe require at least two years of relevant experience. So, if you are aiming for this career, it is wise to gain hands-on experience early and build the foundation needed for the aviation manager role.
What licenses and certifications should an aviation manager have?
While specific licenses and certifications may not always be required for the aviation manager role, having relevant certifications can significantly enhance your chances of landing that dream job. The certifications you may need to acquire will vary based on the region you are targeting. There are some differences between requirements for aviation managers in the US and in Europe.
Certifications for aviation managers in the US
Newcomers to the aviation manager role in the US often seek out the Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) certification from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), which is the key organization that supports the business aviation sector. To obtain the CAM certification applicants must have relevant education and work experience in the aviation industry and pass the specific CAM exam.
Another important certification for aviation managers in the US is the Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). If your goal is to earn the AAE certification, you first must pass a thorough exam, submit a research paper, and show significant experience in airport management.
Both certifications can significantly enhance your qualifications as an aviation manager and increase your chances of being hired by a top-tier aviation company.
Certifications for aviation managers in Europe
In Europe there is no specific European certification which could be an equivalent for the CAM or AAE. But some European countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands, offer their own certification programs for managers that comply with the regulations set by local aviation authorities. Typically, many aviation managers in Europe enhance their qualifications and knowledge of European aviation law by pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in aviation management or a related field.
What is the salary for an aviation manager?
Aviation managers play a crucial role in the industry’s success. Thus, their salaries reflect the importance of their responsibilities. Various factors may influence paychecks of these professionals, including geographic location, specific industry sector, and the individual’s level of experience.
According to statistics, typically, aviation managers in the United States earn between $75,000 and $130,000 annually, with an average salary hovering around $90,000. While in Europe, the salary is similarly structured, generally falling between €50,000 and €100,000 per year.
Curious about the salaries of other aviation professionals? Check them out in the article here.
The financial rewards of being an aviation manager may sound appealing, but this career also presents dynamic challenges. A successful aviation manager is compensated not only for their expertise but also for a unique blend of personal qualities. Strong leadership skills are essential, as aviation managers must continuously inspire and motivate their teams. Effective communication is vital, enabling them to convey complex information clearly to diverse stakeholders. Problem-solving abilities are also crucial, as unexpected challenges can arise daily.
But if the thrill of building and implementing new strategies ignites your passion for aviation, and you are eager to embrace constant change in your career, then expanding your horizons as an aviation manager could be the perfect fit for you. This role will not only keep you on your toes but it will also allow you to make a real impact in the aviation industry.