An operations agent manages an airport’s operations, responding to emergencies, coordinating with staff, and ensuring security. They need aviation experience and communication skills, and can work their way up from administrative positions. Airlines may also have their own operations agents.
An operations agent is involved in the operational management of an airport. This job includes a variety of tasks to keep the airport running smoothly and may require working odd hours if a facility operates early in the morning or late at night. Airports are generally looking for people with at least three years of aviation experience for these positions. It may help to have security training qualifications, as security is a significant concern for airports of all sizes.
When an operations agent arrives on shift, departing agents can provide a debrief. They can discuss the day’s flight schedule and talk through any issues that arise. Operations agents must be able to respond to emergencies quickly, keeping the airport running smoothly. They work with airport staff on issues ranging from emergency disembarkation requests to airlines having to adjust their schedules due to equipment issues.
Agents usually have an office, but they may spend most of their day hanging out at the airport. They frequently check for security breaches, help the team resolve issues, and meet with different employees throughout the day. In the event of a problem, an operations agent may need to address issues such as coordinating an airport evacuation or working with staff to reroute in order to keep the runway clear. Communication skills are essential for this job, which can require multiple people to interact daily while performing multiple tasks, particularly at a large international airport.
People often develop the skills needed to become an operations agent on the job. They start in the operations department, providing administrative support, and gradually take on more responsibility. As employees gain experience and demonstrate skills, they can be promoted to higher positions. Over time, this could lead to qualifying as an operations agent, or it could prepare an airport employee to apply for a job at another airport if promotions seem to be moving slowly.
Individual airlines may have their own operations agents who coordinate staff, wake up crew members, and file appropriate documentation with authorities. They work with airport personnel to resolve security issues and ensure standards set by the carrier and airport are met. This includes documentation requirements for flights, safety protocols and personnel training. Operations agents can stay in touch with gate agents, ground crews and call center representatives to keep the airline on time.
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