Aircraft Dispatcher / Flight Planner

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work arrangement

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan with company match

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Aircraft Dispatcher / Flight Planner for a fully remote role supporting a cargo airline client. You will plan routes, compute fuel, monitor weather, and ensure regulatory compliance for worldwide operations.

You will collaborate with pilots, maintenance, and schedulers, maintain flight logs, and help develop planning tools. A valid dispatcher certificate and 3+ years' experience are preferred; the position offers remote work with opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate or equivalent (e.g., Flight Operations Officer).
• Strong knowledge of meteorology, navigation, and aircraft performance.
• Experience with flight planning software and international regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Plan and file flight plans considering weather and ATC restrictions.
• Calculate fuel requirements and reserves for safety and contingencies.
• Monitor weather along routes and at destinations, update flight crews.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Time management

Remote work capability

English proficiency

Education

Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate

Tools

Flight planning software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cargo airline specializing in regional and international transport, is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Aircraft Dispatcher / Flight Planner to join their remote operations team. This fully remote position allows you to contribute to the critical planning and execution of flight operations from anywhere. You will be responsible for planning flight routes, calculating fuel requirements, monitoring weather, and ensuring all operational aspects meet safety and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of flight operations, meteorology, navigation, and aviation regulations. You will work collaboratively with pilots, maintenance, and scheduling teams to ensure efficient and safe flight operations. Our client is committed to operational excellence and offers a dynamic, remote-first work environment with opportunities for growth within flight operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and file flight plans, considering weather, air traffic control restrictions, and aircraft performance.
• Calculate fuel requirements for flights, ensuring adequate reserves for safety and operational contingencies.
• Monitor weather conditions along flight routes and at destination/alternate airports, providing updates to flight crews.
• Analyze aircraft performance data to optimize routing and fuel efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable aviation regulations and company operational policies.
• Communicate effectively with pilots, providing flight updates, clearances, and essential operational information.
• Monitor the progress of flights en route, making adjustments or providing support as necessary.
• Coordinate with maintenance and operations control to ensure aircraft readiness and operational feasibility.
• Maintain accurate flight logs and operational records.
• Participate in the development and refinement of flight planning procedures and tools.

Requirements

• Valid Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate or equivalent certification (e.g., Flight Operations Officer).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in flight planning or aircraft dispatch.
• Strong knowledge of aviation meteorology, navigation, and aircraft performance.
• Familiarity with flight planning software and systems.
• Excellent understanding of aviation regulations and international operational requirements.
• Proficiency in English language (spoken and written) and standard aviation phraseology.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote work setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as operations are 24/7.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering significant flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Work with a dedicated and experienced flight operations team.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Exposure to diverse flight operations and international routes.
• Continuous learning in a dynamic and evolving aviation industry.
• Contribution to the safe and efficient operation of a key logistics provider.