Aviation operations specialists organize flights and crews for safety and convenience. One can become a flight expert by joining the military or civilian airline fleets, with on-the-job training or a degree in aviation management. A calm demeanor and ability to handle emergencies are preferred.
While air traffic controllers ensure that each pilot is safely flown to and from the sky, aviation operations specialists are tasked with organizing those flights and crews for organization, safety, and convenience. To become a flight expert, you can follow a few paths. One includes joining a military branch to help coordinate a base’s air fleet; another involves civilian airline fleets, for which extensive on-the-job training is required. Many of these professionals also hold a bachelor’s degree in aviation management or have at least attended several university courses on the subject.
The military forces of most nations include professionals dedicated to coordinating fleet defense missions. In the United States, the Air Force, Navy and Army allow recruits to become flight specialists on bases, state or overseas. These personnel receive months of specialized training to coordinate flight plans, oversee airport emergencies and keep accurate records of flights, cargo and even passengers. While a college education is not required for military aviation specialists, it is preferable. A security clearance is also a common requirement for these positions as sensitive information is handled on a regular basis.
Aviation operations specialists are also employed at public and private airports around the world. To become a flight expert as a civilian, your high school education must focus on statistics and other higher mathematics, as well as computer technology, English, and advanced sciences such as physics. To secure these positions, applicants also usually have a bachelor’s degree in aviation management or at least aviation courses. Experience of at least two years working at the aerodrome is also a common prerequisite for employment.
According to the California Department of Employment Development, the state’s 410 airfield operations specialists earned between $21.74 and $33.69 in 2005. Of those 410 flight specialists, one in three held a Bachelor’s degree and about half had attended college. The rest were trained on the job.
To become a flight specialist in the civil field, applications are usually submitted to a state or local government that manages the airport at which professionals will work. A drug test, valid driver’s license and background check are usually required for employment. Some even require applicants to be able to carry at least 40 pounds. Employers tend to favor candidates with a calm demeanor, able to handle emergency situations fluently and with respect for clients.
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