Aircraft Performance Analyst - Flight Optimization

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings options

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for an Aircraft Performance Analyst based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. In this hybrid role, you will collect and analyze flight data to optimize fuel burn, flight times, and overall aircraft performance, collaborating with operations and engineering teams.

You will build models for different aircraft types, report KPIs, and recommend routing and engine-performance improvements. A strong quantitative background and 4+ years in aviation analytics are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering, Mathematics, or Statistics.
• Minimum 4 years in aircraft/performance analysis or aviation data analytics.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, Python, R, MATLAB) and databases.
• Strong understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and flight mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Collect and process flight data (fuel burn, times, altitudes, weather) from multiple sources.
• Analyze performance data to identify deviations and root causes.
• Develop and maintain performance models for various aircraft types and routes.
• Calculate KPIs: fuel efficiency, on-time performance, costs.
• Recommend optimization of flight planning, routing, and engine performance.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and dispatch to implement improvements.
• Utilize specialized software for data analysis, modeling, and reporting.
• Stay informed on aviation tech and analysis techniques.
• Prepare regular performance reports for management.
• Assist investigations into fuel discrepancies or performance issues.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related quantitative field

Tools

Excel

Python

R

MATLAB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive airline operations company, is seeking a dedicated Aircraft Performance Analyst to join their team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role is crucial for optimizing flight efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and enhancing overall operational performance through rigorous data analysis. You will be responsible for collecting, processing, and analyzing vast amounts of flight data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement in aircraft performance. This hybrid role requires you to spend a portion of your week in the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape office, collaborating with flight operations and engineering teams, while also allowing for remote work flexibility. The ideal candidate possesses a strong analytical mindset, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for aviation efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect and process flight data, including fuel burn, flight times, altitudes, and weather conditions, from various sources.
• Analyze flight performance data to identify deviations from planned parameters and determine root causes.
• Develop and maintain performance models for different aircraft types and routes.
• Calculate and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as fuel efficiency, on-time performance, and operational costs.
• Provide recommendations for optimizing flight planning, routing, and engine performance parameters.
• Collaborate with flight operations, maintenance, and dispatch teams to implement performance improvements.
• Utilize specialized software tools for data analysis, modeling, and reporting.
• Stay informed about advancements in aviation technology and performance analysis techniques.
• Prepare regular performance reports for management and operational teams.
• Assist in investigations related to fuel discrepancies or performance issues.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in aircraft performance analysis, flight operations analysis, or a similar analytical role within the aviation industry.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and software (e.g., Excel, Python, R, MATLAB) and database management.
• Strong understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and flight mechanics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and statistical skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a hybrid team.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy.
• Must be based in or willing to commute to Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, and comfortable with a hybrid work arrangement.
• Familiarity with flight data monitoring (FDM) systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance and retirement savings options.
• This hybrid role provides a flexible work arrangement, balancing office collaboration with remote convenience.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in flight operations and data analytics are available.
• You'll work with a dedicated team focused on making aviation more efficient and sustainable.
• Enjoy a standard working week with opportunities for professional engagement and a healthy work-life balance.
• Contribute to critical operational improvements within a growing aviation company.