Deputy Head of Flight Operations - Part 135

Aviair; Darwin; On-site; AUD 190,000 - 270,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support

Accommodation assistance

Professional development & training

Succession pathway to HOFO

Supportive team environment

Job summary

Aviair is seeking a Deputy Head of Flying Operations (Part 135) to join our leadership team. Based in Broome or Kununurra, you will work alongside the HOFO to lead pilots and crews, uphold safety standards and CASA compliance, and drive continual improvement across our regional operations.

This role offers a clear progression to Head of Flying Operations, a competitive salary, relocation/ accommodation support, and the chance to contribute to aviation services across remote communities.

Qualifications

• Pilots and supervisory leadership required with strong safety focus.
• Understanding of CASR Parts 119 and 135 is essential.
• Experience managing regional/remote flight operations is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead pilots and senior base pilots across multiple locations.
• Ensure safe and efficient day-to-day flying operations.
• Maintain training, checking and operational standards.
• Drive a positive safety culture and Safety Management System outcomes.
• Support CASA compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to planning, workforce capability and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership experience

Safety culture

Regulatory knowledge (CASR 119/135)

Crew mentoring

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Commercial Pilot Licence (Aeroplane)

Current Class 1 Medical

ASIC eligibility

Job description

Deputy Head of Flight Operations - Part 135

Accommodation assistance available if required

If you’re passionate about aviation leadership and excited by the idea of living somewhere extraordinary, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every requirement. We value potential, attitude and commitment to safety.

This is more than a flying operations role. It’s an opportunity to help lead one of Western Australia's most respected regional aviation operators while enjoying a lifestyle that most people only experience on holiday.

Based in either Broome or Kununurra, you’ll work alongside our Head of Flying Operations to lead a skilled pilot workforce, uphold the highest safety standards, and help connect some of Australia's most remote communities. With a clear succession pathway to HOFO, this role offers a rare blend of operational leadership, career progression and lifestyle.

If you’re an experienced pilot with strong leadership capability and a passion for safety, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't tick every box.

Aviair is a leading regional aviation operator in Western Australia, delivering essential air transport services across the Kimberley, Pilbara and beyond. Our fleet includes Beechcraft Super King Air, Pilatus PC‑12, Cessna Grand Caravan and GA8 Airvan aircraft, supporting both charter and regular passenger transport operations.

We are committed to safety, reliability and exceptional customer service, and we continue to innovate to meet the needs of remote communities and industry partners.

Part of a Larger Aviation & Tourism Group

Aviair forms part of the broader HMC Group, a diverse aviation and tourism organisation that includes:

Nexus Airlines — Western Australia’s newest regional airline, connecting communities across the state

HeliSpirit — One of Australia’s largest helicopter tourism and charter operators

Together, these businesses create unique opportunities for collaboration, career development and exposure to a wide range of aviation operations. Joining Aviair means becoming part of a group that is shaping the future of regional aviation and tourism in northern Australia.

Why the Kimberley?

Imagine finishing work and being minutes from world-class fishing, boating, waterfalls, gorges and some of Australia's most spectacular landscapes.

Whether you choose Broome's coastal lifestyle or Kununurra's rugged adventure, you’ll enjoy:

• A welcoming and community-focused lifestyle.
• Minimal commuting and more time for what matters.
• Year-round outdoor adventure and exploration.
• The opportunity to make a genuine contribution to regional Australia.
• A unique lifestyle without compromising your career ambitions.

Role Summary

As Deputy Head of Flying Operations, you’ll work as a trusted second-in-command to the HOFO and play a key role in the safe and effective operation of our Part 135 business.

You’ll provide leadership to pilots and operational crews, contribute to strategic decision-making, support regulatory compliance, and help drive continual improvement across the organisation.

This position is ideally suited to someone seeking their next leadership step and offers a genuine pathway into a future Head of Flying Operations role.

Key Responsibilities

Leading and mentoring pilots and senior base pilots across multiple location.

Supporting safe and efficient day-to-day flying operation.

Maintaining training, checking and operational standards.

Driving a positive safety culture and Safety Management System outcomes.

Supporting CASA compliance and key regulatory requirements.

Contributing to operational planning, workforce capability and continuous improvement initiatives.

Working closely with the HOFO to strengthen leadership capability and operational performance.

About you

You’ll be an experienced aviation professional who combines strong operational knowledge with a collaborative leadership style.

We’re particularly interested in candidates who bring:

• Experience leading or mentoring flight crews.
• Strong knowledge of CASR Parts 119 and 135.
• Turbine operational experience, ideally within regional or remote operations.
• Excellent communication, decision-making and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A genuine commitment to safety, professionalism and continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Commercial Pilot Licence (Aeroplane).
• Current Class 1 Medical.
• Minimum 2,500 hours total flight time with significant turbine experience.
• Previous management, supervisory or leadership experience within air transport operations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an ASIC.

Desirable Qualifications

• PIC experience on King Air, PC-12 or Caravan aircraft.
• Previous CASA-approved key personnel experience.
• Training, checking or flight instructing qualifications.
• Aviation, management or leadership qualifications.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package with salary sacrifice options.
• Relocation and accommodation assistance available.
• Genuine succession pathway to Head of Flying Operations.
• Leadership role with excellent work-life balance.
• Ongoing professional development and training support.
• The opportunity to work within a growing aviation and tourism group.
• A supportive and values-driven team environment.