The Flight School Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a flight training institution, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, maintaining high safety standards, and managing staff and students. This role requires leadership, operational expertise, and a strong understanding of flight training programs.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
- Oversee the daily operations of the flight school, ensuring smooth and efficient workflow.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures to improve training quality and operational efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with FAA (or other relevant aviation authorities) regulations and industry best practices.
- Maintain accurate records of student progress, flight hours, aircraft maintenance, and instructor schedules.
- Coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure aircraft availability and safety.
- Manage budgets, financial planning, and cost control for the school.
Student and Instructor Management
- Supervise and support flight instructors, ground instructors, and administrative staff.
- Recruit, hire, and train qualified flight instructors and staff.
- Monitor student progress, address concerns, and ensure a high level of training quality.
- Organize student enrollments, scheduling, and graduation processes.
- Act as a liaison between students, instructors, and regulatory bodies.
Safety and Compliance
- Ensure all operations comply with FAA, ICAO, or local aviation authority regulations.
- Implement and oversee safety management systems (SMS).
- Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
- Maintain and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Marketing and Business Development
- Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract new students.
- Build relationships with airlines, aviation companies, and industry stakeholders to create career opportunities for graduates.
- Represent the flight school at aviation events, career fairs, and promotional activities.
- Manage partnerships with aircraft manufacturers, aviation organizations, and flight training affiliates.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Must have experience in a Flight School.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Bachelor's degree in aviation, business management, or a related field (preferred).
- Experience in flight training operations, aviation management, or a similar leadership role in a Flight School.
- Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, flight training programs, and aviation safety practices.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks.
Work Environment
- Based at an airport or flight training facility.
- Combination of office work, hangar inspections, and airfield operations.
- Interaction with students, instructors, maintenance teams, and aviation authorities.