Flight Operator & Mission Planner

AALTO HAPS; Farnborough; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aviation technology company in Farnborough seeks a Flight Operator & Mission Planner for Remotely Piloted Aircraft System operations. This role involves conducting flight planning, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting mission activities. Candidates should have experience with unmanned aerial systems and hold relevant pilot licenses. A supportive work environment focused on professional growth is provided.

Benefits

Bonuses

Pension plans

Qualifications

• Ability to pass CAA or FAA medical examinations.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours supporting 24/7 operations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct flight planning, meteorology assessments, and system checks.
• Operate and manage the aircraft system from the ground control station.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and uphold safety standards.
• Support mission planning, data analysis, and system testing.

Skills

Experience with unmanned aerial systems

Knowledge of aviation regulations

Strong communication skills

Ability to make complex risk-based decisions

Education

Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) or equivalent

Radio Telephony License (RT)

Job description

Aviation Operations · Farnborough

Flight Operator & Mission Planner

Join AALTO, a pioneer in stratospheric flight technology, operating high-altitude platforms like Zephyr, which flies above 60,000 feet powered by solar energy. Zephyr's capabilities include long-duration flights for applications such as surveillance, disaster management, border protection, and agriculture.

This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of an innovative team at the forefront of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operations. You will undergo comprehensive training, including 5 weeks of Operator Training and 4 weeks of Mission Planner Training, with practical experience in Farnborough, UK, and on deployment.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct flight planning, meteorology assessments, system checks, and manage airspace.
• Operate and manage the aircraft system from the ground control station.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations (e.g., CAA, KCAA) and uphold safety standards.
• Support general flight operations and ground-based activities such as mission planning, data analysis, and system testing.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Experience with unmanned aerial systems and knowledge of aviation regulations.
• Strong communication skills, ability to work under pressure, and willingness to travel internationally.
• Ability to make complex risk-based decisions and pass background checks.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Ability to pass CAA or FAA medical examinations.
• Current Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) or equivalent.
• Radio Telephony License (RT) for controlled airspace operations.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours supporting 24/7 operations.

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Department

Aviation Operations

Location

Farnborough

About AALTO

At AALTO, we foster a supportive work environment that values well-being, professional growth, and financial security through benefits like bonuses and pension plans. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Founded in 2022, with over 190 colleagues, we are dedicated to innovation in aviation technology.