Fly Alliance | Chief Pilot

Director of Operations, Part 135

Location: Orlando, FL

Classification: Salary, Exempt

Status: Full Time

About Fly Alliance

Fly Alliance is a leading Part 135 and Part 145 private aviation group offering private jet charter, jet card memberships, aircraft sales, aircraft management, parts, and maintenance. Committed to exceptional luxury, safety, and operational excellence, Fly Alliance sets the global standard in private aviation. With a fleet of over 30 aircraft, eight international offices, and a team of nearly 300 professionals, Fly Alliance operates on a global scale. Recognized as a Top 20 U.S. Operator for three consecutive years, the company drives innovation and service within the private aviation industry. Fly Alliance consistently redefines client expectations for private air travel through its dedication to excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

Role Objective

The Director of Operations is primarily responsible for the regulatory oversight of flight operations. This role ensures the company's compliance with international, federal, state, and local regulations, aligning with company values and financial targets. The Director of Operations guarantees that all flight operations are conducted responsibly, prioritizing safety and adherence to the General Operations Manual (GOM) and General Maintenance Manual (GMM). This individual will implement best practices and processes while balancing business needs and operational requirements. The Director of Operations holds the responsibility and authority to direct all operational functions from a regulatory perspective. The Chief Pilot, Assistant Director of Operations, and all pilots report to and are accountable to the Director of Operations for all matters pertaining to CFR Part 135 operations.

The three core objectives of this role are:

• Ensure full compliance with all FAA Regulations and other foreign government regulations.
• Support crew members, with assistance from the Assistant Director of Operations, in addressing daily operational questions and issues.
• Proactively support the Director of OCC in ensuring upcoming trips are scheduled and completed as planned.

Essential Job Tasks

• Maintain operational control of company CFR Part 135 flight operations.
• Foster strong working relationships with the FAA Certificate Holding District Office and Principal Inspectors.
• Oversee all company training programs, policies, and procedures, reporting to the CEO on business needs.
• Develop and maintain Operational Specifications for Part 135 Operations.
• Directly manage the company's General Operations Manual (GOM).
• Coordinate with the Director of Maintenance and Chief Pilot on policies and procedures to ensure aircraft and flight crew safety and GOM/GMM compliance.
• Ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration approved drug and alcohol programs.
• Establish and implement operating practices and procedures in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations to maintain the highest safety standards and quality of service.
• Participate in the recruiting, hiring, and training of personnel according to company and operational requirements.
• Ensure all crew and certificate-related data is consistently up-to-date in Jet Insight, Wyvern, and Argus.
• Provide oversight to the OCC team in Jet Insight, including trip releases, rest periods, and flight times, ensuring regulatory adherence.
• Verify the accuracy of flight logs completed by the OCC team.
• Manage and facilitate third-party audits (Wyvern, Argus, ISBAO) with support from the Director of Safety.
• Oversee the trip release process with authorized team members.
• Ensure all flight operations are conducted safely and in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations, Operational Specifications, and company policies.
• Communicate with the FAA Flight Standards District Office and the National Transportation Safety Board as necessary.
• File all required reports and documents thoroughly and in a timely manner.

Competencies

• Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all organizational levels.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Exceptional listening, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, professional attitude, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency in computer programs, including the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in determining appropriate responses and actions in diverse situations.
• Proven leadership ability to motivate and inspire others.

Work Environment

Work is primarily conducted within an office environment in Ocoee, Florida, utilizing standard office equipment. Remote work may be required to meet the demands of the role outside of standard office hours.

Physical Demands

• Ability to remain in a stationary position for 25-50% of the time.
• Ability to occasionally move within and outside the office environment.
• Constant operation of a computer and other office productivity machinery.
• Constant use of a telephone, requiring oral and auditory capacity for interpersonal communication.
• Requires light physical effort, handling objects up to 20 pounds occasionally and/or 10 pounds frequently.

Travel

Some travel will be required.

Required Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Three (3) years of proven experience in a similar role.
• A minimum of 3 years of supervisory or managerial experience within the last 6 years, exercising operational control over operations conducted under Part 121 or Part 135.
• University Degree in Business; Master's degree preferred.

Direct Reports

• Chief Pilot
• Assistant Director of Operations
• OCC Director

Work Authorization

Must be authorized to work in the United States of America.

Salary

$180,000 - $200,000 annually