Airline Non-flying Careers Overview
General Information
Even though the airlines are in business to transport people from one place
to another, they could not function without the help of many people on the
ground, including those who take reservations and sell tickets, as well as those
who help keep the airplanes operating on schedule.
In general, most airline jobs require a high school diploma. All workers,
regardless of their jobs, are given some degree of on-the-job training. Some
private technical schools offer courses in airline operations (such as
reservations, ticketing, teletypist and flight attendant training). This
training may give an applicant an advantage, but remember that each airline has
its own training procedures. Therefore, you should check with the airline to
which you are applying to find out what pre-employment training it requires.
The Applicant Portal Section of our services
provides complete job descriptions and requirements for all open positions.
The airline industry is a dynamic industry indeed. It has become the major
provider of public transportation for Americans traveling between the nation's
cities. In fact, scheduled airlines now account for 92 percent of public
passenger intercity travel. Career opportunities with the airlines vary widely.
For some jobs, a small amount of training is needed; for others, college degrees
are required. In between these extremes are dozens of jobs calling for different
types of education, skills, and personal characteristics. The working
conditions, wages, opportunities for advancement, and requirements for entry are
briefly described on this page. Information about airline
pilots,
flight engineers,
flight attendants, and
aviation mechanics is omitted since
these positions are discussed in other areas of the web site in the
Aviation Careers
Series.
Salaries, working conditions, and opportunities for advancement vary
according to the size of the airline. The larger the airline, the greater the
opportunities and the stiffer the competition. Scheduled airlines of the United
States range in size from those with two stations and fewer than 50 employees to
those with over 100 locations and more than 100,000 employees.
U.S. international airlines fly to foreign airports through-out the world;
major domestic carriers span the continent, connecting large population centers.
A number of these major airlines also fly over international waters to Alaska,
Hawaii, and the Caribbean. In recent years the number of regional airlines with
service to small communities has expanded. Then there are the all-cargo
airlines, some of which provide overnight delivery of letters and packages.
In general, most airline jobs require a high school diploma. All workers,
regardless of their jobs, receive on-the-job training. Some private technical
schools offer courses in airline operations such as reservations, ticketing,
teletyping, and flight attendant work. This training may give an applicant an
advantage, but, the airlines have their own training procedures, so interested
applicants should check with the airline of their choice to see what
pre-employment training is required.
The airline industry updates its equipment and working methods periodically,
which makes it necessary for personnel to be retrained from time to time. Few
industries are so involved with employee training programs. The airline industry
gives employees new skills at the company s expense and keeps them abreast of
new equipment techniques. Whether the job is that of a pilot, mechanic, flight
attendant, baggage handler, ticket sales agent, or a manager, periodic training
is mandatory. These large training programs provide opportunities for employees
to advance to jobs on training staffs.
Employees enjoy benefits such as paid vacation, sick leave, life insurance,
dental insurance, group accident and sickness insurance, retirement income
plans, credit union membership for savings and loan purposes, and free air
travel or air travel at greatly reduced rates for employees and members of their
families. In addition, they often receive large discounts for travel on
international airlines and for hotel accommodations at holiday destinations.
Employee suggestion programs with cash awards are another benefit.
Promotions are almost always made from within the company. Usually vacancies
are filled by advancing the best-qualified workers from the ranks. Merit
promotions are made periodically on the basis of the employees work. Shift work
is a characteristic of many jobs with the airlines; passengers and cargo travel
all hours of the day and night, and passenger and air cargo services must be
available. Dissatisfaction with shift work is the most common cause of job
turnover, even though hourly wages are increased for workers on afternoon and
evening shifts. Smoking on the job is prohibited for those who deal with the
public or those who clean, fuel, or overhaul the aircraft.
All personnel who have direct contact with the public or who need special
clothing for utility or sanitary reasons (cleaners, mechanics, and kitchen
workers) must wear uniforms. Employees are usually required to purchase their
own uniforms; this requirement reduces the amount of personal clothing for
working hours that is needed.
Airline jobs are located in every city that airlines serve and even in a few
they do not serve. Of course, the larger the city, the greater the variety of
job opportunities. The largest concentrations of airline career opportunities
are in New York, Chicago, St. Louis, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Detroit,
Denver, Kansas City, Atlanta, Boston, Cleveland, Salt Lake City, Seattle, and
Washington, D.C. An applicant may obtain career information by writing directly
to the airline. Foreign airlines flying into the United States hire Americans to
handle their passenger and air cargo business and to service their aircraft
during stopovers. These employment opportunities should not be overlooked.
The airline industry is a young industry, and it attracts youth. Morale is
generally high among employees, who seem to develop a high degree of loyalty to
their company and to the airline industry. (There are exceptions. After buyouts
and mergers, employees often feel that the incoming management has disregarded
their needs.) Jobs with the airlines tend to carry an aura of prestige in the
community, reflecting the vitality of technological progress and the romance and
excitement associated with air travel and faraway places.
Briefly described below are many of the jobs that must be filled to keep the
planes flying.
Instructor
The airlines' excellent safety record is largely because of the first-rate
training they provide. To keep up the proficiency of flight crews and ground
personnel who have direct contact with the airplanes, powerplants, and flight
techniques, the airlines employ several thousand people. Typical training jobs
are ground school instructor, flight attendant instructor, and flight
simulator/duplicator operator. The instructors direct the pre-service and
in-service training programs of the airline. Educators are also employed as
curriculum/program developers.
Engineer
In line with their particular engineering specialty, engineers work closely
with aircraft manufacturers to develop new models of airliners. They make sure
the requirements of the airline are met concerning performance, aircraft
accessories, cabin plan, interior decorations, and extra equipment. They also
design improvements to aircraft and to methods of servicing and over-hauling
them.
Flight Dispatcher
In cooperation with the pilot, the
flight dispatcher furnishes a flight plan
that enables the aircraft to arrive at its destination on schedule with the
maximum payload and the least operating cost. The flight dispatcher considers en
route and destination weather, winds aloft, alternate destinations, fuel
required, altitudes, and traffic flow. The dispatcher's signature, along with
that of the pilot, releases the aircraft for flight. The dispatcher maintains a
constant watch on all flights dispatched and is the go-between for the pilot and
ground service personnel. He or she keeps all personnel concerned with the
flight informed about its status. The dispatcher must be familiar with
navigation facilities over airline routes and at airports as well as with the
takeoff, cruising, and landing characteristics of all aircraft operated by the
airline. The flight dispatcher also must ride periodically in the cockpit with
the flight crew to observe flight routes, conditions, and airports.
Working Conditions
Flight dispatchers work indoors at the airport in the airline operations
office. They use computers, calculators, weather charts and information, and
loading re-ports. A 40-hour week with shift work is normal.
Flight dispatchers frequently work under pressure, especially when flying
weather is bad. They must make many rapid decisions concerning safety, flight
regulations, and the economy of operations. These employees are surrounded by
people, teletype machines, telephones, and intercom systems in a noisy, busy
atmosphere. Those who work for a small airline, carry on the duties of a
meteorologist and schedule coordinator.
Wages
Salaries start around $25,000 per year and increase, over a ten-year
employment period, to about $49,000.
Opportunities for Advancement
Flight dispatchers can move into this position from jobs as dispatch clerks,
junior flight dispatchers, radio operators, meteorologists, or station managers.
Large airlines employ senior dispatchers who specialize in coordinating the
finances of every flight. Promotion is from within. Experience as an airline
dispatcher may be used in qualifying for a job as an air traffic controller with
the Federal Aviation Administration or as an airport director.
Requirements for the Job
Though a college degree with a major in air transportation or meteorology is
useful preparation for work as a flight dispatcher, experience is equally
important. Job applicants must have good vision, hearing, enunciation, and an
FAA dispatcher's license. They must know thoroughly the Federal Aviation
Regulations on airline operations and be competent in airline communications and
meteorology.
Meteorologist
The meteorologist analyzes weather data and prepares weather reports for the
flight dispatcher, pilots, and other airline personnel concerned with weather
information. He or she assists the flight dispatcher in preparing flight plans.
Working Conditions
Working indoors at the airport in the airline operations office, the
meteorologist uses weather facsimile machines, teletype machines, computer
terminals, weather charts, and other meteorological data. Shift work is
required, and the normal work week is 40 hours.
Wages
Airlines, depending upon their size, pay between $28,000 and $47,000 per year
as a starting wage. For meteorologists employed by the Federal Government, those
with a bachelor's degree but no experience receive starting salaries ranging
from $ 17,000 to $22,000, depending on college performance. For master's
degrees, stating wages range from $21,000 to $27,300 and Ph.D.'s from $25,700 to
$33,400.
Opportunities for Advancement
A meteorologist with a large airline, may be promoted to chief meteorologist
or take a position as an assistant flight dispatcher. The employee may also use
this experience to become a meteorologist for the National Weather Service or
for a private meteorology service.
Requirements for the Job
A college degree with a major in meteorology is required. It is common to
gain prior experience with military weather services or with the National
Weather Service as a meteorological technician or meteorologist.
Schedule Coordinator
The schedule coordinator keeps track of the whereabouts of aircraft and
crews; receives and relays reports of delays due to weather and mechanical
problems; estimates times of arrival; gives orders for substitution of aircraft
when required, and handles the scheduling problems that arise when flights must
be diverted to alternate airports. The schedule coordinator makes decisions
affecting the seating arrangements of planes, turnarounds, estimated times of
arrival, and unscheduled stops. He or she also determines aircraft availability,
based on servicing and maintenance requirements. In scheduling crews, the
schedule coordinator must consider many factors: sick calls, vacations, days
off, flight hour limits, types of aircraft for which a crew is trained, and
seniority bids or choices of flights selected by crew members.
Working Conditions
The airline operations office at the airport is a very busy place. The
schedule coordinator is surrounded by banks of phones, teletype machines,
computers, and charts. The pressure of the job can be intense. A 40-hour work
week, with shift work, is normal.
Wages
Annual wages range from $14,400 to $36,000, depending upon the size of the
airline.
Opportunities for Advancement
The schedule coordinator, after starting as a clerk with responsibilities in
one or two areas, can advance to assistant schedule coordinator, senior schedule
coordinator, and then chief of schedule control. He or she also may work up to a
position in the dispatcher's office as general dispatch clerk or an operations
planner.
Requirements for the Job
A college degree with a major in air transport operations is useful
preparation, but it is not mandatory.
The following positions are all similar with slight variations in the duties
performed. These positions work directly with the public inside the airport
facility itself.
Ticket Agent
The ticket agent answers inquiries about flight schedules and fares, verifies
reservations by phone, figures fares, writes tickets, and handles payments.
Agents who work at an air terminal ticket counter may check in passengers'
baggage. The Ticket Agent is most often the first employee the passenger meets
after entering the airport. They assist passengers in:
- The purchase of tickets
- Seat assignment
- Directions to the gate
- Baggage check in
- And other duties very similar to that of the Reservation Sales Agent
The Ticket Agent must be able to lift checked baggage which can weigh up to
one hundred pounds. The Ticket Agent is similar to the Reservation Sales Agent
although this a highly visible position and usually requires a uniform. The
ticket counter usually operates 24 hours at the airport, and offers a wide
variety of work schedules. Ticket counters are located in every city in which
the airline serves.
The ticket agent answers inquiries about flight schedules and fares, verifies
reservations by phone, figures fares, writes tickets, and handles payments.
Other duties may include checking baggage, making boarding announcements, and
assisting handicapped passengers when they board or depart the plane. Telephone
and computer equipment are used.
Working Conditions
The agent may work at an airport or at an airline ticket office downtown or
in a hotel. Shift work is necessary, and most airlines require ticket agents to
wear uniforms.
Wages
Wages range from $1,500 to $2,600 per month, plus additional pay for late
shift work.
Opportunities for Advancement
A ticket agent may be promoted to passenger service agent, station agent, or
chief of the ticket office. He or she also may become a ticketing instructor, or
join the airline staff as a sales representative. Superior employees are often
considered for junior management training.
Requirements for the Job
The minimum age varies from 18 to 20 years, depending on the airline.
Graduation from high school is a minimum requirement; however, two years of
college or the equivalent experience in dealing with the public is preferred.
Good grooming, respect for accuracy, a pie as-ant and courteous manner, and
legible handwriting are important. International airlines may require foreign
language ability. On-the-job training is offered.
Station Agent
The Station Agent works the arrival and departure gates. This is most often
the second employee the passenger meets after entering the airport, and
venturing down the concourse. The Station Agent assists the passenger in:
- Additional check-in requirements
- Seat assignments
- Boarding, arrival, and departure announcements
- Gate-checked baggage
- Answering questions and offering information on airline and airport
related topics
The Station Agent is similar to the Ticket Agent, although they do not
actually sell tickets. This is also a highly visible position, and usually
requires a uniform. The gate area of some airports operate 24 hours, and offer a
wide variety of work schedules. The arrival and departure gates are located in
the concourse area of every airport that particular airline serves.
The station manager or agent is responsible for all flight and ground
operations such as aircraft handling, passenger services, and air cargo
operations for the airline at a particular airport. At a small station, the
manager may be required to sell tickets, make public announcements, check
baggage, move portable stairs, prepare passenger and air cargo manifests,
operate teletype machines and computer terminals, and perform other services.
Working Conditions
Usually the station manager works in an office at the airport, although
sometimes he or she may work outdoors, depending upon the size of the airport
and the staff. Shift work is required during a 40-hour week.
Wages
Annual wages start at $12,000 per year and increase to about $31,000 after 10
years, depending upon the size of the airline.
Station Manager
Sometimes known as the district operations manager, the station manager or
agent is responsible for all flight and ground operations, such as aircraft
handling, passenger services, and air cargo operations. At a small station, the
manager may sell tickets, make public announcements, check in baggage, move
portable boarding stairs, prepare passenger and air cargo manifests, operate
teletype machines and computer terminals, and perform other needed services.
Reservations Sales Agent
The reservations sales agent handles telephone inquiries about flight
schedules, fares, and connecting flights, and he or she reserves seats and cargo
space for customers. The reservations sales agent must be able to operate
computerized reservations equipment, keep records of reservations, and recommend
services that fit customers' requirements. Reservation Sales Agents typically
deal with the public through telephone inquiries. Their duties include answering
questions and offering information on:
- Ticket sales/bookings
- Flight schedules
- Seat availability
- Fares
- Transporting animals
- Airline policies
- Government regulations
- Departure and arrival times
- Tours
- Car rental
- Hotel accommodations
- Routes scheduled by other airlines
- And more...
The Reservation Sales Agent answers calls on the only published telephone
number available to the public. This position usually does not require a
uniform, and operates 24 hours, thus offering a wide variety of work schedules.
These sales centers may or may not be located near an airport, and most airlines
have numerous centers located throughout the United States, and abroad. This
position is generally never seen by the traveling public, however strong
communication and telephone skills are necessary. The typical starting salary
range is approximately five to ten dollars per hour.
Each year millions of Americans travel by air. Their trips are made easier by
professionally trained reservation sales agents. They handle telephone inquiries
about flight schedules, fares, and connecting flights; reserve seats and cargo
space for customers; operate computerized reservations equipment; and keep
records of reservations. Agents must be able to recommend services that fit each
customer's requirements, and they must be familiar with routes and schedules of
other airlines.
Working Conditions
Reservation agents usually work in large central offices answering customers'
telephone inquiries and booking flights. Most agents have access to computer
terminals and, by typing instructions on the keyboard, can quickly obtain the
necessary information and make the reservation.
The transportation industry operates at all hours of the day and night, thus
schedules are often irregular. Agents with the least seniority often work
nights, weekends, and holidays. Although the work is not physically strenuous,
some employees may feel stress, especially during busy periods of holiday travel
or at times when the computer systems fail. If operations are interrupted or
delayed due to inclement weather or mechanical problems, agents may serve as
buffers between the airlines and their customers. Trying to pacify angry
travelers also can create stress. The job, however, is interesting, and many
challenges occur as the reservations sales agent works out the passenger's
travel requirements.
Wages
Some 54,000 reservations sales agents work for the airlines, with starting
salaries at $ 12,064 going up to $38,600 for supervisors.
Opportunities for Advancement
A reservations sales agent may advance to training or supervisory positions.
Supervisors monitor how other agents handle customers' inquiries. The handling
of "executive accounts" and the accounts of firms with special
"vacation packages" offered by the airline are jobs reserved for the
more experienced and higher paid agents. The employee may transfer to a job of
ticket agent. Reservations work is a principal route to a management position
for the persistent worker since turnover, due to shift work, is high. Promotion
opportunities are frequent.
Requirements for the Job
Applicants must have graduated from high school and be at least 18 to 20
years of age, depending on the airline. One or two years of training in airline
operations at schools offering such courses, or experience in public telephone
contact work, is preferred. Airlines offer on-the-job training. Accuracy and
speed on the job are essential. A good telephone voice, proper English usage,
and the ability to "project" oneself over the phone are necessary.
Today experience with computers and computer programs specifically geared to
reservations is often required. At least one year of prior experience in public
relations work, preferably in sales, is needed. College may be considered as a
substitute for prior work experience. Applicants must be willing to work shifts.
Air cargo reservations agents may need some experience in shipping operations.
Ground Attendant
High public visibility characterizes this job. The ground attendant assists
passengers in the terminal in many different ways. For example, the ground
attendant answers questions about fares, helps locate lost baggage, explains
missed connections, and provides assistance to persons who are ill or in need of
a wheelchair.
The ground attendant assists passengers in the terminal with their questions
about fares, lost baggage, missed connections, and other problems. Passengers
who are ill or need a wheelchair are helped by the ground attendant. High public
visibility characterizes the job.
Working Conditions
The work involves considerable standing and walking inside the air terminal.
Shift work is required, and a uniform must be worn.
Wages
Wages range from $ 1,500 to $2,700 per month.
Opportunities for Advancement
A ground attendant may advance to trainer, supervisor, or chief of counter
sales.
Requirements for the Job
The minimum age varies from 18 to 22, depending on the airline. Applicants
must be high school graduates. Business experience or training in airline
operations at schools offering such courses are sometimes required. On-the-job
training is given. A ground attendant may be required to work at the ticket
counter in the terminal. Therefore, foreign language ability is helpful at
international airports.
Teletypist
The teletypist operates teletype machines that send, receive, and distribute
messages. He or she works in the airline's operations office or in other offices
where teletype equipment is used.
This employee sends and receives messages on teletype machines, relays the
messages to the proper departments and to other stations on the airline's
routes, and files them as required.
Working Conditions
The teletypist works indoors at the airport in the airline operations office
or in other offices where teletype machines are used. Shift work is required
during a 40-hour work week.
Wages
Wages are from $ 12,600 to $28,800 per year, depending upon the size of the
airline.
Opportunities for Advancement
A teletypist can advance to a supervisory position.
Requirements for the Job
A high school graduate is preferred. Training in teletype operations and
procedures is desirable. The teletypist must be able to type at least 40 words
per minute and must know the codes and symbols used in airline communications.
SkycapSkycap help passengers with baggage and answers their questions about
departures, arrivals, and terminal facilities. Skycaps assist passengers to and
from taxis, buses, and cars, and they may check in baggage at the terminal
entrance. At many air terminals, the Skycap are employed by the airport rather
than by the airlines.
Working Conditions
Skycap work inside the air terminal and outdoors. They must wear a uniform.
Shift work is required. Skycap lift and carry heavy luggage, and they handle
baggage hand-carts in the terminal.
Wages
Wages range from $ 1,100 to $2,100 per month. Skycap receive tips, which can
be considerable if numerous passengers use the terminal and the Skycap is
helpful and outgoing.
Opportunities for Advancement
Skycap may advance to the position of supervisor of skycap or to a sales
representative.
Requirements for the Job
A high school graduate is preferred. The minimum age is 18 to 21, depending
on the airline. Applicants must like to help people and be physically strong.
On-the-job training is available. One airline fills this job from the ranks of
ramp service persons.
Air Freight AgentAir freight agents receive air freight shipments, supervise loading and
unloading, and keep written records. They handle contacts with air freight
forwarders and customers, and they use telephones, computers, and hand
calculators to do their jobs.
Working Conditions
The work is done indoors in an office adjacent to the air freight terminal.
Telephones, computers, and hand calculators are used. Shift work is required.
Wages
Wages generally run from $ 1,250 to $2,600 per month, but some agents earn
considerably more.
Opportunities for Advancement
An airfreight or cargo agent may advance to the position of ramp service
planner or supervisor of air freight handlers. He or she also may join the air
freight sales staff or air cargo management staff.
Requirements for the Job
A high school graduate with experience in shipping operations is preferred.
Applicants must like to work with records and be detail-oriented. Physical
strength is also required.
Passenger Service Agent The Passenger Service Agent (PSA) responds to passengers needing special
assistance because of over-sold flights or missed connections, for example. He
or she may help with the boarding or deplaning of passengers and also may
perform the duties of ticket agent and/or station agent. The Passenger Service
Agent acts as a ground hosts or hostess. The PSA is highly visible and helpful
to the public. They answer questions and offer information covering a wide
variety of airline and/or airport related topics. In addition to providing
information, they tend to the passenger needing assistance (injured, ill,
handicapped, elderly passengers and small children traveling alone) in every way
possible. This may include helping these passengers pass through the airport
from the ticket counter to boarding, and every step in between:
- Passenger check-in
- Ticket pick up
- Security checks
- Electric carts or wheel chairs to expedite or ease movement through long
concourses
- Boarding announcements
- Public announcements
- Deplaning announcements
- Connecting flight information
- Direction assistance
- Assist Station Agents
- Handling unruly, upset, or angry passengers
The PSA is a highly visible employee, and usually wears uniform of some type.
Their typical work location is on the concourse of the airline they serve.
Passenger Service Agents are present anytime passengers are present, and
generally supervise and assist in concourse operations to ensure smooth
operation and customer satisfaction. The PSA must be knowledgeable of all
airline procedures and policies to instill customer confidence, show genuine
concern, and help operations run as tranquil as possible.
The passenger service agent responds to abnormal conditions-passengers
needing special assistance, oversold flights, missed connections, heavy
passenger concentrations-to expedite loading or unloading of passengers. He or
she may also perform the duties of ticket agent and supervise the ticket office.
Working Conditions
The passenger service agent wears a uniform and works at the air terminal.
Shift work is required. A wide variety of challenges characterizes this job.
Wages
The salary ranges from $1,500 to $2,600 per month.
Opportunities for AdvancementQualified, dedicated workers can advance to various managerial positions. The
job of a passenger service agent is excellent training for subsequent work in
sales, customer service, and flight operations departments.
Requirements for the JobHigh school graduation is a minimum requirement. A thorough knowledge of
flight schedules and ground services is necessary. On-the-job training is
normally provided. If employed by an international airline, the passenger
service agent may need to know a foreign language. Experience as a ticket or
reservations agent is helpful.
Sales RepresentativeSales representatives or account executives explain to prospective customers
the advantages of their company's service for travel and shipment of cargo. They
also maintain contact with travel agencies, businesses, and educational
institutions, as well as with other airlines to increase interline sales.
Sometimes they make hotel reservations for customers. A knowledge of flight and
fare schedules is essential.
Working ConditionsSales representatives work business hours and wear business attire.
WagesSalary ranges from $15,000 to $33,000 per year.
Opportunities for AdvancementSales representatives may advance to the position of district sales manager.
Requirements for the JobA college degree with courses in air transport management is desired.
Applicants must be aggressive, yet personable. They must show initiative and be
willing to relocate. The ability to speak persuasively and convincingly is
necessary. International airlines may require foreign language ability. Courses
in psychology, public speaking, and salesmanship are helpful. On-the-job
training is provided. NOTE: Some airlines hire college students for training in
sales promotion during the summer vacation. On their return to college, the
students become campus representatives for the airline, contacting other
students and faculty members to acquaint them with the airline's special service
and holiday opportunities. These part-time jobs often lead to full-time
employment in sales positions after the students graduate from college.
District Sales ManagerThe district sales manager is in charge of the city ticket and reservations
sales offices in the area. To promote air traffic and sales of airline seats and
cargo space, the sales manager maintains contacts with many prospective
customers and directs the activities of sales personnel. He or she makes many
contacts with people to promote air traffic and sales of airline seats and cargo
space. The sales manager directs the activities of other sales personnel.
Working ConditionsThe district sales manager works in a downtown office during regular business
hours. To promote the airline, he or she also must attend many meetings and
social affairs "after hours."
WagesThe salary ranges from $23,000 to $50,000 per year.
Opportunities for AdvancementThe district sales manager may advance to a larger district with a
corresponding increase in responsibilities and salary. He or she might work up
to a top job as "Vice President-Sales."
Requirements for the JobThis is not an entry-level job. Vacancies are almost always filled by
employees who move through the ranks.
Ramp Service Personnel There are various types of ramp personnel.
WagesWages range from $7.00 to $15.00 per hour, with extra pay for late afternoon
and night shifts.
Opportunities for AdvancementDepending on the ramp size of the airline and agreements with the employees'
unions, ramp service persons may become leaders and supervisors of the crews in
their own work areas. From the lowest paying jobs, such as cleaners of the cabin
and exterior of the aircraft, diligent employees can work their way up to higher
paying jobs, such as baggage handlers, drivers, and aircraft fuellers. With
experience at a variety of ramp service jobs, workers with administrative
abilities may be promoted to ramp planner.
Requirements for the JobA high school diploma is normally required and the minimum age is 18 to 21,
depending on the airline. Ramp service persons who drive trucks, buses, fork
trucks, towing tractors, and similar equipment must have a driver's license. A
chauffeur's license may also be required.
Good physical health and strength are necessary for baggage and air cargo
handlers. On-the-job training is given when new equipment is put into service or
when better methods of accomplishing a job are developed.
Exterior of AircraftThis ramp serviceperson washes, polishes, touches up paint, and de-ices the
exterior of the aircraft. Chemicals are used to prevent corrosion of surfaces.
Working ConditionsRamp service persons sponges, brushes, mops, and hoses to clean the outside
of planes. They must stand on scaffolding or ride special lift equipment to
reach high places. Although usually in a hangar, they sometimes work outdoors.
The heaviest work schedules are at night, when most aircraft are not in service.
Shift work is required, and work is done frequently under pressure of time.
Uniforms must be worn.
DriverThis job category includes drivers of food trucks, mobile stairs, employees'
buses, messenger cars, conveyors, cleaning equipment, aircraft air conditioning
and power carts, and other equipment.
These employees drive equipment to the aircraft and operate machinery used to
load and off-load food containers, galley units, and other kinds of equipment.
They attach and detach ground air conditioning and power carts, move stairs, or
drive employee buses between airline facilities at the airport. They are usually
on a regular work schedule.
Working ConditionsDrivers wear uniforms and work shifts. They spend their time outdoors on
noisy ramps in all weather conditions. They must use extreme care in positioning
equipment near aircraft.
Cabin ServicepersonThe cabin serviceperson cleans the airplane and cockpit between flights.
Particular duties include vacuuming the floor, picking up trash, washing
lavatories and buffets, replacing headrests and pillow covers, folding blankets,
refilling seat packets with magazines and safety information, refilling the
drinking water supply, and cleaning the cockpit windows. Other service persons
are responsible for the exterior of the aircraft. They wash, polish, touch up
paint, and de-ice the outside of the airplane. They also work with chemicals
that are used to prevent corrosion of surfaces.
The cabin serviceperson cleans the airplane and cockpit between flights. He
or she vacuums the floor, picks up trash, washes lavatories and buffets,
replaces headrests and pillow covers, folds blankets, refills seat packets,
refills drinking water supply, and cleans the cockpit windows.
Working Conditionsthis employee uses cleaning equipment and must work at a fast pace and in
cramped area with a team of workers. The job often must be completed within 10
or 15 minutes allowed before the plane loads passengers. There is shift work,
and uniforms must be worn.
Baggage and Air Cargo Handler The baggage and air cargo handler loads and unloads baggage, air mail, air
express, and air cargo shipments. He or she operates baggage tugs, conveyors,
fork lifts, and other baggage and air freight handling equipment. The Baggage
Handler is responsible for loading and unloading baggage. They may lift heavy
luggage, mail sacks, and fasten freight under pressure and time. They use
trucks, forklifts, baggage carts, and conveyors to load aircraft in a safe and
cautious manner. These materials are loaded in the baggage compartments (belly)
of the aircraft. Almost all work is done outdoors and uniforms are required for
security purposes. These employees work on arriving and departing aircraft which
provides a varying work schedule in accordance to the airlines flight schedule.
Training is usually done on the job. The average starting salary is five to
twelve dollars per hour.
The baggage and air cargo handler loads and unloads baggage, air mail, air
express, and air cargo shipments. He or she drives baggage tractors and operates
conveyors, fork lifts, fork trucks, and other baggage and airfreight-handling
equipment. Machinery also is used to sort and route baggage and air cargo to and
from various flights.
Working ConditionsThis ramp serviceperson works outdoors on noisy, crowded ramps in all kinds
of weather. He or she must do considerable lifting and moving of baggage, mail
sacks, and air express shipments and pushing and positioning of air cargo. Shift
work is required, and a uniform must be worn.
Aircraft Fueller The aircraft fueller operates the fueling equipment. This employee may fill a
fuel truck and deliver the fuel to aircraft. Other ramp personnel drive food
trucks, mobile stairs, employees' buses, messenger cars, and conveyors. They
also may transport cleaning equipment, aircraft air conditioning, and power
carts.
Working ConditionsThe aircraft fueller works outdoors in all kinds of weather with potentially
hazardous aviation gasoline and kerosene. Shift work is required, and a uniform
must be worn. To reach the fuel tank openings, the aircraft fueller may need to
climb up and walk along the wings of the aircraft. Strict safety rules must be
observed.
Ramp PlannerThe ramp planner keeps track of arriving aircraft and dispatches service
units, cleaners, fuellers, baggage handlers, and food service trucks. He or she
must know flight schedules.
Working ConditionsThese employees work indoors at the airport, using charts, telephones,
teletype machines, and computer terminals. Shift work is necessary. They work as
a team with other planners.
WagesWages range from $ 18,000 to $31,200 per year.
Opportunities for AdvancementWorkers may advance to junior positions on the flight operations management
staff or on the administrative staff of an airport director.
Requirements for the JobA high school diploma is required and the minimum age is 20 to 25, depending
on the airline. The position of ramp planner is not an entry-level job;
experience as a ramp serviceperson is usually necessary.
Cabin Maintenance MechanicThe cabin maintenance mechanic cleans and paints interiors of aircraft during
periodic major overhauls; removes and installs carpets, seats, curtains, and
bulkheads; and reupholsters seats. He or she also overhauls and cleans
electrical equipment in cabins, such as lights, buffets, and coffee-makers.
The position of cabin maintenance mechanic is not to be confused with the
position of airframe and powerplant mechanic. The cabin maintenance mechanic
cleans and paints interiors of aircraft during periodic major overhauls; removes
and installs carpets, seats, curtains, and bulkheads; and reupholsters seats. He
or she overhauls and cleans electrical equipment in cabins, such as lights,
buffets, and coffee makers.
Working ConditionsIn hangar shops, the cabin maintenance mechanic stitches upholstery and
curtains on sewing machines. He or she also uses other tools associated with
upholstery, rug laying, installation of seats, electrical maintenance of cabin
service equipment, and sheet metal work. Work must be completed on schedule.
Shift work is necessary, and uniforms may be required.
WagesWages range from $10.00 to $17.00 per hour.
Opportunities for AdvancementThe employee may advance to leader, assistant supervisor of cabin
maintenance, and then to supervisor.
Requirements for the JobA high school diploma is required. Technical or vocational school training in
the various mechanical skills is usually required. A worker may specialize in
one kind of job.
Food Service EmployeeThe food service employees follow set recipes to prepare and cook food. They
arrange silverware and dishes on serving trays and food items in serving dishes.
They place food in either hot or refrigerated containers for pickup and delivery
to the aircraft. They receive and clean soiled dishes.
(Cooks, Bakers, Pantry, Dining Service, and Kitchen Helpers)Food service employees follow set recipes to prepare and cook food. They also
arrange silverware and dishes on serving trays and put food items in serving
dishes. They place the food in either hot or refrigerated containers for pickup
and delivery to the aircraft. Food service employees also receive and clean
soiled dishes.
Working ConditionsThey work in a flight kitchen at the airport. Work must be completed
according to flight schedules. The kitchen is a busy, noisy place. Shift work is
required, and uniforms must be worn.
WagesWages range from $6.00 to $9.00 per hour, plus extra pay for late afternoon
and night shifts.
Opportunities for AdvancementA food service employee may advance to the position of pantry worker, steward
chef, supervisor, chief chef, assistant buyer, or commissary chief.
Requirements for the JobHigh school graduation is desired. The minimum age requirement is 18 to 20,
depending on the airline. All workers must have health certificates. A respect
for cleanliness and good housekeeping procedures is mandatory. Chefs and cooks
must have previous experience in food preparation, on-the-job training is given
for all other kitchen workers. Food service employees must be willing to work
shifts.
Auto MechanicThe auto mechanic services and repairs ground service equipment, such as
portable stairs, fuel and food trucks, towing tractors, and employee buses.
Working ConditionsRepairs are made indoors in a garage or outdoors on the ramp. The duties are
those usually associated with an auto mechanic. The normal work week is 40
hours.
WagesThe annual salary range is from $18,000 at the entry level to $45,000 for
supervisors and those with high seniority.
EngineersThe engineer works closely with aircraft manufacturers during the development
of new models of airliners. His or her job is to make sure the requirements of
the airline are met as to performance, aircraft accessories, cabin plan,
interior decorations, extra equipment, etc. The engineer also designs
improvements to aircraft and to methods of servicing and overhauling them.
Working ConditionsMost of the work is performed indoors in an office, but sometimes the
engineer must visit hangars and maintenance shops for consultations and
inspections. Frequent travel to aircraft manufacturing plants may be necessary.
Or the engineer may be required to live in the area where the aircraft are being
constructed; upon completion of the planes, they would then move to the airline
headquarters.
WagesThe average starting salary is approximately $25,000.
Opportunities for AdvancementAn engineer may be advanced to a job supervising junior engineers or to a top
position as vice president for engineering or maintenance.
Requirements for the JobA college degree with a major in an engineering field related to air
transportation is required. Previous experience and a graduate degree are
desirable.
Instructors(Ground School Instructor, Flight Attendant Instructor, Flight
Simulator/Duplicator Operator)An important factor in maintaining the airlines' excel-lent safety record is
their training effort. Several thousand people are employed to maintain the
proficiency of flight crews and ground personnel engaged in direct contact with
the airplane, powerplants, and flight techniques. Instructors direct the
pre-service and in-service training programs of the airline. For example, they
make certain that the pilots keep up their instrument flying proficiency. The
use of flight simulators and other ground training devices is supervised by an
instructor. Educators are also employed as curriculum and program developers.
Technical support is provided by craft workers who develop training aids for use
by the instructors in the airlines' classrooms.
WagesSalaries range from $1,000 to $3,000 per month, depending upon the tasks
performed.
Opportunities for AdvancementInstructors may advance to executive positions in the training department.
Requirements for the JobInstructors can qualify, in some instances, on the basis of two years of
airline employment, plus supervised teaching experience in a specialty. Those
who instruct by means of a ground training device are required to understand how
to maintain and repair that device. Familiarity and experience with electronic
equipment are helpful.
Administrative personnelIn addition to the previously described jobs, airlines employ thousands of
receptionists, typists, secretaries, stenographers, mail and file clerks, and
computer personnel, as well as people in managerial positions such as training,
public relations, publications, finance, personnel, and other kinds of work
associated with business and industry. Salaries are generally above the average
paid by industry and business.
Professional PersonnelProfessional job opportunities within the airlines today break down into the
following categories: architects, aeronautical research scientists, engineers,
drafters, doctors, nurses, lawyers, and instructors. Intensive education and
specialized training are required to perform many of these jobs. The salaries
are among the highest paid to airline employees. The personal qualifications are
the same as those required of similar professionals in other fields. The
salaries of airline professionals are among the highest paid to airline
employees.
The importance of professionalism, appearance, courtesy, and speed are
immeasurable for these positions. The starting salary ranges from five to twelve
dollars per hour. Raises and promotions are usually based on annual reviews or
when positions become available. Upward mobility from these positions can lead
to other positions within the company such as:
- Trainer
- Supervisor
- Sales Representative
- System Support Representative
- Employment Recruiter
- Flight Dispatcher
- Frequent Flyer Coordinator
- Lateral movement within the company (Department or Location transfers)
Excepting drafters, instructors, and nurses, professional personnel should be
college graduates with postgraduate training and experience, each in a field of
specialization. Drafters usually can substitute four years of work experience
for formal training at the college level. Nurses must be registered.
Outlook For The FutureThe deregulation of the airline industry, which began in the mid- 1970's,
greatly changed the way the airlines operated. Existing airlines exercised their
new found freedom by expanding some routes and discarding others. Many new
airlines, mostly regionals, appeared on the scene. All of the carriers could
raise or lower their fares at will-a privilege they had not enjoyed in the
past-resulting in promotional fares and other marketing activities that induced
many more people to fly.
The overall result has been an expansion of the airline industry and a surge
in hiring in most job categories. However, there is a down side: the industry
has become less stable. Some airlines have merged, and others have gone out of
business entirely, causing a dislocation of employees.
All things considered, the outlook for the airline industry is good.
Scheduled airlines now account for 92 percent of the public passenger travel
between the nation's cities and more than 95 percent of the travel between the
United States and points overseas. Continued growth of the airline business is
likely. The economic health of the airlines, however, is directly related to the
economic strength of the country as a whole, as well as to outside influences
such as the cost of fuel.
An Airline Station Manager Talks About His JobGary King is the Cincinnati Station Manager for Comair, Inc., one of the
Delta Connection regional airlines. He supervises the 300 people who staff the
Comair station at Greater Cincinnati International Airport.
"My career started with TWA here in Cincinnati. You might say at the
bottom. I started as a ramp agent. During my tenure with TWA, I had exposure to
ramp positions, fueling aircraft and handling air cargo. I received several
promotions and eventually was transferred to Chicago's O'Hare International
Airport, where I Was put in charge of the airfreight department. We had
something like 280 people in that area at the time, but international economic
conditions caused a downturn in the airfreight business; it went into a demise,
you might say, and so did all the positions. I was furloughed."
"So I Put my job search into gear. I answered an ad in the Chicago
Tribune. Comair was seeking a manager-ironically ,for me -for the Cincinnati
area. I was pretty familiar with the airport and with many of the airport
managers and administration offices, and had a pretty good background. I
interviewed for the position and was hired."
"Basically, the station managers job is administrative. I deal with
station operations - the passenger aspects, ground service, equipment, and
fueling - all facets of running the station."
"A typical day has one constant in it: the flight schedule is
consistent. However, different situations occur every day. Different people fly,
different personalities interact and must be contended with. Basically, I look
at our operating statistics from the previous day, go through a lot of budgetary
items, authorize bills, have numerous meetings to discuss operational concerns.
"Some of the characteristics that I possess, and that I think a person
has to have for success at this type of job, relate to motivation and to
self-management. A person has to be goal-oriented. That's Number One. Secondly,
a person has to know how to manage his or her time effectively in order to
complete an eight- or ten- or twelve-hour day. The person also has to have an
open mind, not be a presuming type of individual, nor a knee-jerk reactor, but
one who can analyze, evaluate, and implement."
"The only dislikes I have about this job are those things I don' t have
the ability to control, such as weather and the delays and mechanical problems
that force cancellations of flights. Other than |