What is the Role of an Aviation Manager?

Since the relaxation of Covid 19 restrictions around the world, the aviation sector has been experiencing a boom. Estimates say that passenger levels coming through Terminal 1 in Dublin Airport are at about 95% of pre-pandemic numbers, with Terminal 2 just a little bit less, at around 80%. 

The issues being experienced by passengers on a daily basis in Dublin Airport have been well-documented in the media and lots of questions have been asked of Dublin Airport management.

With that going on, it is an opportune time to look at what exactly the role of an aviation manager is.

Managers play a critical role in the success of any organisation they manage. Managers in all fields guide people within their departments while also assisting in the establishment of key performance metrics and objectives to assist the growth and development of the organisation.

What is Aviation Management?

Aviation management, as defined by the employment company Indeed, is the department in charge of organising operations at an airport, airline, or other aviation-related enterprises.

Professionals in this sector specialise in a variety of professions, including customer service, aircraft maintenance, flight logistics and airline marketing. An aviation manager manages a company or organisation in the aviation sector. This might entail working in airline management, where you can expect to be responsible for the entire operations of an airline. Alternatively, it may also entail being a manager at an aircraft manufacturing firm, an airport, or any organisation in the aviation business.

As a result, the role of one aviation manager may differ substantially from that of another. In an airport setting, an aviation manager is an airport staff member in charge of monitoring and ensuring compliance with regulatory framework and requirements. A part of an aviation manager's role is making sure that an airport or its departments function effectively and safely and managing airport or department employees. Regardless of where you work, an aviation manager typically reports to senior executives and corporates, which may entail preparing reports.

What are the Main Responsibilities of an Aviation Manager?

So, what are the main tasks of an aviation manager? We return to Indeed once more for a better understanding.

Because an aviation manager is basically in charge of managing all key activities in the aviation industry, the tasks connected with the position are diverse. As an aviation manager, you may often be in charge of recruiting and terminating employees, negotiating agreements and contracts and coordinating the activities of several departments.

Additionally, you may be responsible for training, assisting in the creation and implementation of strategic initiatives and ensuring that the aviation firm complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

You may fill various additional positions inside the organisation at times to keep things running smoothly. Listed below are some duties you may take on as part of your role as an aviation manager. Be mindful that these duties vary greatly depending on where you work. Learn more about what an aviation manager does below:

• making sure that the organisation runs safely and efficiently
• ensuring that flight schedules go according to plan
• maintaining aircraft maintenance and service records
• overseeing inspection schedules and activities
• monitoring and ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks and regulations
• recruiting and terminating staff
• assisting repair and maintenance crew in preparing for flights
• going over and reviewing aircraft accident reports
• keeping up to date on the latest aviation standards, procedures, policies and laws
• working closely with emergency responders to monitor the weather and anticipate issues in aviation activities
• identifying problems relating to airline or airport operations
• determining areas of improvement and action plan to enhance efficiency
• providing inputs and suggestions to strategic decisions that impact the functional and operational area of responsibility
• assisting and supervising the preparation of budgets
• handling operational aspects of an emergency that may arise at aircraft or airports
• resolving issues related to operational activities
• coordinating and working closely with other departments
• establishing, cultivating and maintaining rapport with various key stakeholders, such as government initiatives, regulators, lobbyists and airline industry representatives
• preparing accident and financial reports to present to senior management and executives

What are some of the Key Skills Needed by an Aviation Manager?

As you can see that is a pretty diverse set of responsibilities. Of course, as mentioned already, the work of one aviation manager will differ from another. But there are a core set of skills, both hard and soft, that are required for one to move into a managerial role within the aviation industry.

Interpersonal skills: In order to build a network and establish connections with industry professionals and key stakeholders, it's essential that an aviation manager is great at interacting with people. They work with people for the majority of the day, and developing interpersonal skills, like compassion and empathy, can help them succeed.

Communication skills: Working as an aviation manager requires confidence and the ability to convey clear directions to others. This entails communicating both in verbal and written forms.

Listening skills: Strong active listening skills help aviation managers understand the needs of their customers and stakeholders and provide the best solutions for all parties. They may use active listening to respond to questions, hear instructions and listen to stakeholder's concerns.

Research Abilities: Quality research and a deep understanding of the industry is essential for aviation managers to be successful. Consider researching the regulatory framework, the aviation industry's procedures, and industry trends about your organisation.

Dependability: Dependability shows others that you're accountable and they can depend on you to complete your tasks. Your dependability can help you provide your customers with confidence, and it can help you manage your team effectively.

Adaptability and Flexibility: Because market conditions and the aviation industry trends are constantly changing, your ability to react promptly is crucial.

Proactivity: An aviation manager is proactive in proposing concrete and effective solutions to customers. To create effective plans, it's critical that you're able to tackle any scenario proactively.

Customer Service skills: The ability to prioritise your client's needs and respond to their inquiries contributes to the development of good client relationships and the enhancement of your organisational reputation.

Industry Knowledge: It's essential that you remain current on the latest industry trends and market changes to take the best course of action for your organisation. It's also important that you possess knowledge of all regulatory requirements relating to airline and airport operations.

Decisiveness: In high-pressure situations, it's critical that you're able to think logically and be decisive in your decision-making process. This can help you make confident choices during the workday.

Problem-solving: When you have a good grasp of industry-specific facts, problem-solving at work becomes much easier. It might also be beneficial to see how others tackle difficulties at work by noticing their tactics and inquiring about their method.

Time Management skills: Being able to manage your time well enables you to spend your time efficiently and successfully to attain your goals.

If a career in aviation management is something that sounds of interest to you, why not check out our Travel & Tourism department page, where you can find information on both our BSc (Hons) Airline, Airport and Aviation Management and our MSc in Aviation Management.

If you are interested in any of our Travel and Tourism degrees, masters or qualifications you can book a consultation call with our expert advisor Brandon McLean here, email brandon.mclean@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0035.