Chief Pilot, Aviation Operations

About the Role

The organization is actively seeking an exceptionally experienced and safety-focused Chief Pilot to lead its flight operations. This pivotal role demands a strong commitment to excellence in safety, regulatory compliance, and unparalleled customer service. The Chief Pilot will be responsible for comprehensively supervising flight crew operations, ensuring stringent adherence to all aviation regulations, overseeing comprehensive training programs and efficient scheduling, and actively participating in flight duties. This position is instrumental in maintaining a high-performing, professional, and world-class flight department.

Key Responsibilities

Leads and supervises all flight crew members, providing expert training, strategic guidance, and comprehensive performance oversight.
Establishes, maintains, and rigorously enforces Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the safest and most efficient flight operations.
Ensures all flights are conducted in strict compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, company policies, and the highest industry safety standards.
Participates in flight duties on a regular basis, encompassing both complex domestic and international operations.
Coordinates meticulous pilot scheduling, manages duty time limitations, and ensures optimal flight readiness for all missions.
Evaluates and mentors pilots to foster continuous professional growth and unwavering regulatory compliance.
Assists in the strategic management of aviation department expenditures and proactively identifies opportunities for cost optimization.
Supports comprehensive maintenance oversight, including meticulous inspections and audits, in close coordination with maintenance personnel and external vendors.
Maintains all required operational records and ensures the timely and accurate documentation of training, flight hours, and certifications.
Collaborates effectively with leadership to define departmental goals and champion critical safety initiatives.
Promotes and cultivates a robust culture of teamwork, professionalism, and exceptional customer service throughout the flight department.

Qualifications

Candidates must possess a distinguished career profile, including:

A minimum of 10,000 total flight hours, encompassing:
- 5,000 hours in turbine aircraft.
- 5,000 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
A Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
A current FAA First Class Medical Certificate and a Commercial Pilot Certificate are mandatory.
Type-rating in Challenger 604 aircraft is highly preferred.
Significant and proven experience in both complex domestic and international flight operations.
A minimum of 5 years of dedicated corporate aviation experience.
Demonstrated exceptional leadership and mentoring capabilities.
A profound understanding of FAA regulations, Safety Management Systems (SMS) programs, and industry best practices.
Exhibits a professional, discreet, and service-oriented demeanor.
Possesses the innate ability to adapt swiftly in dynamic situations and maintain unwavering composure under pressure.
Holds a valid, unrestricted passport.

Additional Qualities for Success

A passionate dedication to safety and operational excellence.
Superior interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Exceptional attention to detail and robust organizational abilities.
A strong team-oriented mindset with a steadfast commitment to company culture and values.
Technically skilled with a proactive, hands-on leadership style.

Physical & Travel Requirements

Capable of sitting for extended periods and performing all duties intrinsically associated with operating aircraft.
Possesses hearing and vision capabilities fully adequate for precise communication and navigation.
Ability to assist passengers as needed and oversee comprehensive preflight safety inspections.
Frequent travel, up to 75%, including extensive international destinations, is required.

The organization invites experienced pilots with a profound passion for leadership, an unwavering commitment to safety, and a dedication to exceptional service to join its team as Chief Pilot and help set the benchmark for private aviation excellence.