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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Flight Dispatcher Assistant

💰 $45,000 - $65,000

AviationOperationsLogisticsAirline Operations

🎯 Role Definition

The Flight Dispatcher Assistant is a pivotal support role within the airline's nerve center, the Operations Control Center (OCC). You will work in tandem with certified Flight Dispatchers, assisting in all phases of flight planning, monitoring, and communication. Your primary objective is to facilitate the seamless flow of operational information, manage flight data with precision, and proactively address potential disruptions. This position requires a sharp analytical mind, unwavering attention to detail, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure, acting as a crucial link between flight crews, ground staff, and the dispatch team to uphold the highest standards of safety and operational excellence.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Aviation Graduate / Student
  • Ground Operations Agent
  • Airline Customer Service or Ramp Agent

Advancement To:

  • Licensed Flight Dispatcher
  • Operations Control Center (OCC) Supervisor
  • Flight Operations Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Crew Scheduler
  • Load Planner

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Assist certified Flight Dispatchers in the planning, calculation, and release of flights in strict accordance with FAA regulations and company policies.
  • Actively monitor the progress of active flights, tracking their real-time position, altitude, and speed using advanced flight following software to ensure adherence to the planned route.
  • Analyze and interpret complex meteorological data, including METARs, TAFs, and weather charts, to identify potential hazards and communicate advisories to the flight crew.
  • Prepare, review, and distribute comprehensive flight packages to flight crews, ensuring all necessary documentation, such as flight plans, weather briefings, and NOTAMs, is accurate and complete.
  • Maintain constant, clear communication with flight crews, ground personnel, and air traffic control to relay critical operational information, clearances, and updates.
  • Calculate preliminary fuel requirements based on aircraft type, route, weather conditions, and payload to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and regulatory compliance.
  • Proactively monitor and manage airport slots, curfews, and overflight permits to prevent operational delays and ensure smooth transit through international airspace.
  • Assist in the coordination and response to irregular operations (IROPS), such as diversions, delays, or cancellations, by developing alternative plans and communicating changes to all stakeholders.
  • Input, update, and maintain meticulous records of flight data, including departure/arrival times and delays, within the company's flight management and scheduling systems.
  • Conduct thorough analysis of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) and airport conditions to assess their impact on planned flights and advise the dispatch team accordingly.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for the Operations Control Center, handling inquiries from various departments regarding flight status and operational details.
  • Support the dispatch team by managing the flow of incoming and outgoing communications via phone, radio, and digital messaging systems in a high-tempo environment.
  • Collaborate with the Maintenance Control Center (MCC) to coordinate on aircraft technical status, maintenance schedules, and tail-number swaps to minimize operational impact.
  • Assist in managing crew duty time limitations by monitoring crew assignments and communicating potential conflicts to the crew scheduling department.

Secondary Functions

  • Generate and disseminate daily operational reports, flight summaries, and performance metrics for management review.
  • Provide real-time updates on flight delays and schedule changes to customer service, station operations, and other relevant teams.
  • Participate in departmental safety meetings and contribute to the continuous improvement of operational procedures and safety protocols.
  • Support the weight and balance process by providing necessary flight plan data to Load Planners.
  • Assist in emergency response procedures by gathering information, documenting events, and supporting the Emergency Response team as directed.
  • Monitor air traffic control (ATC) flow control initiatives and advise the dispatch team on potential reroutes or delays.
  • Perform administrative duties within the OCC as required, including data entry and filing, to ensure a smooth workflow.
  • Ensure all flight documentation is properly archived and compliant with regulatory record-keeping requirements for audit purposes.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency with flight planning and aviation software (e.g., LIDO, Jeppesen, Sabre FPM).
  • Strong foundational understanding of FAA Part 121 regulations and international aviation standards.
  • Ability to interpret complex aviation weather reports (METAR/TAF), prognostic charts, and Doppler radar.
  • Basic knowledge of aircraft performance, weight and balance principles, and operational limitations.
  • High level of computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite and specialized operational systems.
  • Familiarity with flight following systems and ACARS messaging.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional analytical and critical-thinking skills for rapid, effective problem-solving.
  • Clear, concise, and professional communication abilities (both verbal and written), especially under pressure.
  • Proven ability to work effectively in a high-stakes, time-sensitive, and fast-paced team environment.
  • Impeccable attention to detail and a steadfast commitment to accuracy in all tasks.
  • Strong multitasking and organizational skills to manage competing priorities without compromising quality.
  • A collaborative mindset with excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills to liaise across departments.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate.
  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Aviation Management
  • Aeronautical Science
  • Air Traffic Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1-3 years in an aviation operations environment (e.g., airline, corporate, or military operations).

Preferred:

  • Direct experience within an airline Operations Control Center (OCC), ramp operations, or crew scheduling is highly desirable. A strong passion for aviation and a desire to pursue a career as a licensed Flight Dispatcher is a significant plus.
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