Flight Follower / Airline Operations Specialist
Location: Columbus, OH
Company Overview:
AirNet II, a distinguished aviation leader and part of the esteemed Kalitta family of companies, specializes in providing scheduled and on-demand cargo charter services. Operating a modern fleet of Beechcraft Barons and Bombardier Learjets, AirNet II is a premier provider for industries demanding immediate turn-time and specialized handling, upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
Job Summary:
AirNet II is seeking a dedicated and skilled Flight Follower / Airline Operations Specialist to join its team. This critical role is responsible for coordinating and controlling air transportation within the company's fleet, maintaining operational control of flights, and ensuring seamless communication between customers, flight crews, maintenance personnel, and other essential departments.
Responsibilities:
- Create and manage flight manifests and operational logs within the trip building system, ensuring accurate handover of information at the end of each shift.
- Maintain strict adherence to "Operational Control" protocols and standards as mandated by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), ensuring all flights operate in compliance with Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs) and company operating manuals.
- Evaluate and monitor crew legality status concerning flight time and duty limitations.
- Report mechanical delays or changes in flight conditions to appropriate personnel promptly.
- Proactively identify, anticipate, and implement corrective actions to minimize potential delays caused by weather, scheduling complexities, operational issues, crew legality challenges, or maintenance requirements.
- Disseminate flight releases and associated documentation, including necessary paperwork, to assigned flight crews.
- Monitor the progress of flights, prevailing weather conditions, and the status of destination and alternate airports, initiating contact with aircraft or Air Traffic Control (ATC) for amended release procedures when deviations are necessary.
- Ensure all ground handling services, parking arrangements, deicing, fuel requests, and landing/departure slot requirements are properly coordinated.
- Obtain international overflight and landing permits as required and manage all Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs requirements, including notifications, Gen Dec, e-APIS, and CANPASS.
- Receive and maintain precise records of all hazardous materials shipped, ensuring immediate accessibility for FAA or other authorities as required.
- Forward fuel logs, trip sheets, and other essential documentation to the Accounting Department.
- Communicate effectively with pilots and relevant personnel regarding upcoming schedules and any changes.
- Provide pricing quotes and prepare invoicing paperwork for customer billing upon approval from the Manager of Airline Operations.
- Inform necessary personnel regarding any shipment delays or issues.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Manager of Airline Operations.
Shift:
Sunday through Wednesday - 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM (10-hour shifts).
Requirements:
Education and Experience:
- Minimum of two years of related experience in aviation operations or flight following.
- Strong knowledge of FAA Part 135 Regulations is essential.
- Ability to read and interpret aviation weather reports, forecasts, and Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations.
Licenses/Certifications:
- Possession of a valid Driver’s License.
- Ability to obtain an Airport-Issued ID.
Skills and Abilities:
- Intermediate proficiency with MS Office Suite, computer software, and internet applications.
- Must be reliable, punctual, and adaptable to changing operational needs.
- Ability to effectively multi-task and maintain strict confidentiality.
- Candidate must be service-oriented and capable of thriving in a fast-paced operational environment.
- Possess strong communication skills for interacting with employees, customers, and pilots.
- Ability to lift and move items weighing between 55 lbs and 75 lbs.
Compliance:
- Must successfully pass a DOT/FAA pre-employment drug screen and a DOT/FAA compliant background check.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Benefits:
Employer Provided:
- Short Term Disability
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Basic Life Insurance with Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
- Travel Assistance Program
- Fidelity 401K with employer matching contributions starting immediately.
Employee Elective (Starting after 60 days):
- BCBS – Medical PPO options (500 and 1000 deductibles)
- Dental PPO
- Prescription Coverage
- EyeMed - Vision Coverage
- Flexible Spending Account – Medical and Dependent Care options
- Long Term Disability
- Voluntary Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Child
- Accident and Critical Illness Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Child
- Hospital Indemnity for Employee, Spouse, and Child
- Met Law Coverage
- Nationwide Voluntary Pet Insurance
AirNet II evaluates candidates based on attitude, the ability to support safe and professional operations, and strong interpersonal service skills. All candidates are required to pass an extensive background check.