Aviation Management Careers

If you are interested in the business and operational aspects of the aviation industry, aviation management offers a dynamic and rewarding path. As a professional in this field, you are responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and profitable operation of airports, airlines, and other aviation-related organizations. In Chicago, one the nation’s major air travel hubs, the demand for skilled aviation managers is strong.

Responsibilities

Aviation managers perform a variety of tasks crucial to the smooth operation of aviation facilities and services. Key responsibilities include:

Airport Operations Management: Overseeing day-to-day airport operations, including security, ground services, and passenger handling.
Airline Management: Managing the logistics, scheduling, and operational strategies of airlines to ensure profitability and customer satisfaction.
Safety and Compliance: Ensuring that all aviation activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as international aviation standards.
Financial Planning and Budgeting: Developing budgets, managing finances, and optimizing operational costs to ensure financial health.
Customer Service Management: Implementing strategies to improve passenger experience, including managing complaints and ensuring high standards of service.

Work environments

Aviation managers work in a variety of environments, depending on their specific role within the industry. Common work settings include:

Airports: Large and small airports require managers to oversee operations, manage staff, and coordinate with airlines and regulatory bodies.
Airlines: Airline managers work in corporate offices or at airports, focusing on logistics, scheduling, and customer service.
Aviation Consulting Firms: Providing expertise on operations, safety, and efficiency to airports, airlines, and government agencies.
Government Agencies: Working with bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop policies and ensure regulatory compliance.

Aviation management job titles

Aviation management professionals can find opportunities across several industries, including commercial airlines, airport authorities, government regulatory agencies, aviation consulting firms, aerospace manufacturers and more. Job titles may include:

Airport Manager
Airline Operations Manager
Aviation Safety Inspector
Aviation Consultant
Air Traffic Manager
Director of Aviation

Do a deep dive into the Bureau of Labor Statistics data related to this profession by researching General and Operations Managers and Airfield Operations Specialists.

Aviation management industry in Chicago

Chicago is a key player in the aviation industry, hosting major airports such as O'Hare International Airport, one of the busiest in the world. The Chicago area is also hosts a number of top aviation employers, including United Airlines and aerospace and defense manufacturer Northrop Grumman. The Chicago area's status an industry hub makes it a prime market for aviation management professionals. With a high demand for skilled individuals to manage the complexities of aviation operations, Chicago offers abundant opportunities for career growth in this field.

Why pursue a career in aviation management?

Aviation Management is an exciting field for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and have strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. The industry is ever-evolving, driven by technological advancements, global travel demands, and a focus on safety and efficiency. With the right education and experience, a career in Aviation Management can be both lucrative and fulfilling, offering opportunities to work in diverse settings across the globe.

Whether you are passionate about airports, airlines, or aviation safety, pursuing a career in aviation management in a vibrant industry hub like Chicago can set you on a path to success.

To learn more about aviation management courses at Harper College, contact Admissions Outreach at 847.925.6700 or fill out our request information form or apply now.