Aviation flight operations coordinator
Level 3 · AdvancedTransport and logistics 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An aviation flight operations coordinator supports the safe and efficient dispatch and monitoring of flights, working in airline operations control centres, handling agents, or charter operators. Apprentices develop knowledge of flight planning, weather, air law, and operational coordination to help ensure flights depart and arrive safely, on schedule, and in compliance with regulations. This role can lead to flight dispatcher, operations controller, or airline operations manager.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Flight planning principles including routing, fuel calculation, and alternates
Aviation meteorology and interpreting weather products for flight safety
Air law, airspace structure, and regulatory requirements for commercial operations
Aircraft performance, mass and balance, and operational limitations
Slot coordination, airport procedures, and ground handling liaison
Disruption management and irregular operations (IROPS) procedures
Communication protocols and use of aviation messaging systems
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare and file flight plans for commercial operations
Monitor weather conditions and brief pilots on meteorological hazards
Liaise with air traffic control, airports, and ground handlers on departures
Calculate fuel requirements and validate mass and balance documents
Monitor flights in progress and coordinate any changes or emergencies
Manage slot times and communicate delays to relevant parties
Maintain operational records and flight documentation to regulatory standard
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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