Job Purpose
Approved by the respective civil aviation as the “Nominated Post Holder” for the “Head of Flight Operations” position for assigned AOC. Manages the “Flight Operations” standards requirements to ensure safe, reliable and efficient handling of Air Arabia flights in compliance with GCAA/CAA/ICAO/AOC regulations and Company’s global objectives. Also, to ensure optimal utilization of resources and financial control through managing manpower, budget, systems, and contractual agreements with focus on” Legality”, “Safety and Security”, “On Time Performance - OTP”, and “Human Factors”.
Key Result Responsibilities
- Supports the Director in developing and implementing strategic and budgetary plans.
- Initiates and monitors cost-effective budgets, safeguarding safety while achieving efficiency.
- Partners with different functional teams on both technical and administrative perspectives; this includes OCC, Standards & Competence, Technical Development, Ground Operations, and QSS ensuring legality and smooth functioning of the entire department in compliance with AOC conditions and restrictions.
- Ensures available resources such as manpower, systems, tools, and procedures related to his/her area are properly managed and utilized to achieve optimal error-free productivity and meet current and future Company’s needs. Continuously evaluates available systems and software applications and recommends solutions to increase efficiency.
- Collaborates with Air Arabia training teams and aviation academies to establish suitable programs, placements, and specialized training courses tailored to the airline's specific needs. Works with stakeholders to develop a pipeline of qualified talent and prepare future employees for the airline's unique operating environment.
- Embraces new technologies and innovations to enhance flight operations, improves efficiency, and provides superior customer experience.
- Continuously seeks innovative ways to optimize flight operations, reduce costs, and improves efficiency without compromising safety.
- Implements function related policies and procedures in compliance with Civil Aviation regulations, and Air Arabia established standards.
- Contributes to reviewing the “Operations Manual Part A” and other operational documentation with the head of Flight Technical Development on all IATA, and ICAO regulations, obtains civil aviation approval, deemed necessary to enhance safety and improve the operations.
- Partners with QA and Flight Technical Development/ Flight Training to review, implement, and communicate function-related manuals and operating procedures, including the development and amendment of (Operations Manual Part A/B/D) content.
Key Result Responsibilities - Continued
- Ensures implementation of an effective quality system and the Standard Operating Practices to comply with relevant legislation and regulations, especially those which are related to the AOC.
- Cooperates with Quality Assurance/ Safety/Security Departments to ensure adherence of own teams and staff to corresponding standards and set measures; supports investigations and statutory audit checks ensuring timely response to statuary requirements and findings.
- Partners with Safety teams to promote safety culture in the Flight Operations departments and to improve the emergency procedures and Safety Management System; ensures all hazards are reported and risk assessments are properly carried.
- Liaises with regulatory bodies and authorities for relevant approvals and compliance related matter ensuring company interest are protected.
- Partners with the Crew Training teams to decide on the training needs and requirements for the Flight Crew and to ensure that an effective process is put in place to cater for those needs with focus on improving Pilots’ standards of performance through proper and continued training. Ensures necessary technical training is included in the training syllabus and provided to the respective teams; this covers licenses and mandatory training.
- Analyzes operational data and reports; recommends remedial solutions and implements in the workplace once approved.
- Fosters a positive and collaborative relationship with the pilot community, ensuring their engagement and buy-in to operational initiatives. Establishes open communication channels and conducts regular meetings with pilot representatives to address concerns, gathers feedback, and promotes transparency.
- Recognizes pilot performances, fosters a culture of excellence, and promotes a sense of belonging within the pilot community.
- Operates flights as per schedule and business requirements.
- Conducts field visits and assessments to evaluate the overall performance of hubs/stations with focus on legality, safety, efficiency and fairness when required.
- Advises management on Flight Operations matters and represents the airline at national and international forums as required.
Qualifications (Academic, Training, Languages)
- Captain holding an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is a must for this role.
- Comprehensive knowledge in IATA/ CAA/GCAA/Airbus and Regulatory Bodies’ rules and regulations pertaining to Flight Operations working procedures and operating standards.
- Exposure to Quality Assurance, Safety, and Security audit procedures and practices affecting Flight Operations.
Work Experience
- 12+ years of experience in Airlines industry, with minimum 5 years in a similar position leading the Flight Operations of a multinational mid-sized airline company; experience with low cost airline is preferred. (Experience in a similar position is not required for internal applicants)
- Experienced in designing and implementing policies, procedures, manuals in line with standards and regulations.
- Hands on forecasting, budgeting, and monitoring performance KPIs of business initiatives in aviation.
- Professional membership of associations related to the Aviation/Airlines industry is a plus.
- Employs technical expertise and interpersonal relations to support company’s objectives.
