For many decades, the notion of working within an airport or actually up in the air, on a commercial vessel, has been associated with a certain kind of glamour. This is why, every year, thousands of graduates and career hopefuls apply for jobs in the aviation industry. In reality, all airport roles can be pretty tough. They come with a great deal of responsibility.
However, there are plenty of perks. Airport employees tend to be well paid and most get access to free travel and other discounts. They’re lucky enough to work on the frontlines of a lively, fast paced industry, which spans many skills and disciplines. Plus, the great thing about airport jobs is that a large proportion of them allow applicants to swap formal degrees for on-the-job training.
If you’re interested in aviation employment, the first step is identifying the right role. Keep reading to learn about the most popular positions:
Airport Manager.
Yes there’s actually such a position, and completing a diploma in airport management is an essential requirement for this role.
It is because the job of airport manager is a very senior position. It can take some time to reach it, by advancing up through a company, but the prestige and salary make it worthwhile for those interested in this particular industry.
Ultimately, these managers are the heart and soul of their airports. They make the big decisions, shape internal policies, and create job opportunities for others. The responsibilities include everything from budgeting to implementing new technologies, testing equipment, meeting safety targets, and handling the most serious customer complaints.
Flight Attendants/Stewards.
This is the job most commonly associated with aviation, but it is just one option, and it won’t suit everybody. Nevertheless, becoming a flight steward is very exciting. It provides the opportunity to travel while you work, so you could feasibly see the world and earn a healthy wage at the same time.
It is important to remember, however, that long haul flights can be punishing. Also, flight stewards are often put under a great deal of pressure. They must have excellent customer service skills because they regularly deal with sick, frightened, upset, and aggressive passengers. You must be a confident speaker and have a calm demeanour for this job.
Commercial Pilots.
One big misconception is that all pilots have fat salaries. Unfortunately, this is not the case, and the rate of pay depends on a variety of factors, such as level of experience, region, company policies, and regulations governing flying time. Generally, however, wages do increase with experience and pilots earn a healthy amount as soon as they have a reasonable flying record.
The point is that you shouldn’t become a commercial airline pilot purely for the money. This can be a very rewarding role, but it is also mentally and physically exhausting. You need to be highly focused, fully committed and, ideally, love flying with a passion. This is a job which suits meticulous, technically-oriented personalities.
Ground Crew.
The term ‘ground crew’ covers a variety of internal roles.
They include ramp and reservations agents, customer service personnel, refuelling technicians, security staff, baggage handlers, and more. Most of these positions don’t require a formal degree or qualification, but you may have to take various tests or prove your ability in other ways.
Also, it is likely that a ground role of any type will demand a background check (to determine criminal history, if there is any) and a drug screening process. In most companies, these steps are a routine part of employment and get repeated every twelve months. To be successful, you need to have superb multitasking skills and be comfortable around the general public.
How to Get a Job in the Aviation Industry.
If you are genuinely interested in taking things further, conduct your own research on the role that you would like to pursue. You need to find out exactly what is required of you, with a focus on qualifications and training.
Some roles have a more obvious start than others. For example, young graduates interested in airport management can pick up essential skills by enrolling with online learning providers. If you do choose this option, just make sure that the provider is reputable and certified.
