Airline Operations Controller

TUI; Luton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airline company in Luton is seeking a Flightwatch Operator for the Operations Control Centre. In this exciting role, you will monitor flight statuses, coordinate with teams, and ensure the operational planning is executed effectively while maintaining safety standards. The position requires strong communication skills and the ability to work in a diverse operational environment. This is a shift-based role, with the next available start date planned for early March 2026.

Benefits

Attractive remuneration

Generous travel benefits

Discretionary bonus schemes

Health & wellbeing support

Qualifications

• Experience within an airline operational or ground handling environment preferable but not essential.
• A minimum age of 21 years.
• Good level of computer literacy when dealing with multiple systems.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and update flight watch systems.
• Track global weather conditions.
• Coordinate with flight dispatch regarding aircraft routes.
• Administer operational tasks and ensure timely completion of key responsibilities.
• Collaborate with Operations Duty Manager to resolve operational issues.

Skills

Operational aviation understanding

Team player

Computer literacy

Calm under pressure

Communication skills

Job description

This is an exciting role in our TUI Operations Control Centre (TOCC) with accountability for the operational planning, delivery, and control of airline operations in the operational control window.

Using key systems, your primary role will be one of flightwatch, responsible for monitoring and coordinating the status of flights across the TUI fleet – made up of the 5 Group TUI Airlines – and ensuring we are continually aware of where our aircraft are at all times, maintaining the highest safety standards whilst delivering the flying programme. You will report directly to the TOCC Operations Duty Manager to provide support and solutions when there is disruption to the normal operation, as well as liaising closely with internal colleagues within the TOCC in the Crewing, Customer and Engineering teams, and external colleagues such as our Group Operations Centre in Hannover and our service partners and providers across the TUI network.

As our TOCC operates on a 24/7 basis 365 days per year, the role will be shift-based, covering a combination of day (7am - 7pm) and night (7pm - 7am) shifts, including Bank Holidays. Note that shift patterns may be subject to change in line with business requirements.

By applying for this role, you are expressing your interest in the advertised vacancy and will be added to a pool of applicants to be reviewed as and when positions become available.

The next available start date is planned for early March 2026 with Assessment Days due to take place in early January 2026.

ABOUT OUR OFFER

• Personal benefits: Attractive remuneration, generous travel benefits, discretionary bonus schemes, extensive health & wellbeing support, and more
• A career to shape: Access the TUI Learning Hub to level‑up and reach your ambitions
• Broaden your network: We champion intercultural collaboration and provide opportunities to work on global projects and teams
• Community: Get involved with incredible local charity and sustainability initiatives like the TUI Care Foundation

ABOUT THE JOB

• Monitor and update flight watch systems, maintaining real‑time aircraft positions by coordinating with handling agents, flight crew, and ground operations teams
• Track global weather conditions and interpret METAR and TAF data to advise on significant weather impacts on flight operations
• Utilise Eurocontrol's Network Operations Portal to predict and plan for aircraft delays or disruptions
• Coordinate with flight dispatch regarding aircraft routes and ensure critical equipment lists are communicated
• Consider cost analysis, operational expenses, and regulatory requirements when making operational decisions
• Evaluate airport requirements and manage airport slot portfolio based on company and IATA guidelines
• Understand specific operational considerations for each airline and incorporate into decision‑making processes
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders and service providers via phone, chat systems, and ACARS
• Administer operational tasks and ensure timely completion of key responsibilities
• Collaborate with Operations Duty Manager to resolve operational issues and maintain On‑Time Performance (OTP)
• Facilitate communication of program‑related information with internal and external stakeholders
• Stay updated on Emergency Response Procedures for all TUI airlines

ABOUT YOU

• Experience within an airline operational or ground handling environment preferable but not essential
• A sound understanding or experience of operational aviation, technical and regulatory matters
• A minimum age of 21 years
• Ability to stay calm and patient during high‑pressure situations
• Maintaining a professional and respectful manner, with an excellent telephone etiquette
• Good level of computer literacy when dealing with multiple systems
• A passion and enthusiasm for all things aviation
• Able to quickly assimilate information, determine priorities and make decisions based on sound judgement
• Excellent team player able to work in a tight‑knit and diverse operational environment in line with our TUI values

#LI-DD1 #LI-ONSITE

From a workplace to a place to belong. At TUI we embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging everyone to come as you are, because together, our potential is limitless.

We are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities and impairments so if you require any support, please do let us know.

SECURITY CLEARANCE STATEMENT

At TUI, safety is our top priority. We conduct thorough background checks on all employees who join our Airline. Rest assured; we’ll guide you on the necessary information you need to provide at each stage.

Please note that if you are applying for a role in the UK, you must ensure you can provide a full 5 years referencing, plus a criminal record check for all countries you’ve resided in for more than 6 months in the past 5 years (some costs may apply).