Network Planning & Scheduling Specialist
The Network Planning & Scheduling Specialist is responsible for designing and optimizing the airline’s network to maximize profitability and operational efficiency. The role involves analyzing market demand, evaluating route performance, developing seasonal flight schedules, and ensuring optimal aircraft utilization. The specialist collaborates with internal and external stakeholders, including Revenue Management, Operations, Airport Authorities, and Civil Aviation, to implement strategic network initiatives.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Network Planning & Development:
- Analyze market trends, passenger demand, and competition to identify new route opportunities and frequency adjustments.
- Conduct feasibility studies for potential new destinations and route expansions.
- Develop business cases for new routes, aircraft deployment, and frequency increases.
- File seasonal schedules to CAA within the deadline.
- Scheduling & Optimization:
- Develop and maintain seasonal flight schedules that balance commercial demand with operational constraints.
- Optimize aircraft utilization to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Coordinate with Operations, Ground Services, and Maintenance to ensure schedule feasibility.
- Implement schedule changes based on slot availability, aircraft availability, and market dynamics.
- Slot Management & Regulatory Compliance:
- Apply and manage airport slots at constrained airports (Level 2 & 3) to secure optimal departure and arrival times.
- Work closely with Civil Aviation Authorities and airport coordinators to comply with regulatory requirements.
- Monitor and ensure compliance with Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines (WASG) and other slot-related policies.
- Route Performance Analysis & Reporting:
- Provide recommendations to improve route performance through capacity adjustments or pricing strategies.
- Conduct post-launch analysis of new routes and provide insights for future network planning.
- Prepare reports and presentations for senior management on network performance and strategic recommendations.
- Stakeholder Collaboration:
- Work closely with Revenue Management to align capacity planning with demand forecasts.
- Coordinate with Commercial, Sales, and Marketing teams to ensure network plans support revenue goals.
- Engage with external partners, including codeshare and interline partners, to enhance network connectivity.
Requirements and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Business, Economics, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of experience in airline network planning, scheduling, or a related role.
- Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, SQL, Power BI, or Tableau.
- Knowledge of airline scheduling systems (e.g., Sabre, Amadeus, or comparable tools).
- Understanding of key airline metrics, including RASK, CASK, and break-even load factors.
- Experience in slot management and coordination with aviation regulators is a plus.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Proficiency in aviation route analysis tools (Example: OAG, MIDT, Flight Global).
- Familiarity with aircraft performance characteristics and operational constraints.
- Strategic mindset with a focus on long-term network growth.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
