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Aviation manager

Aviation managers use specialist aviation and business knowledge to oversee operational activities, coordinate teams, maintain safety standards and ensure the efficient delivery of aviation services.
Average weekly salary
$2496
Future demand
Strong
Most common education level
Certificate and above

What does an aviation manager do?

There are many careers in aviation beyond being a pilot. Australian airlines require all kinds of professionals, from aircraft navigators to flight coordinators, to airworthiness inspectors. There are those in the control towers managing air traffic; others completing pre-flight checks; and some providing flight information to crews and air traffic services staff. As an aviation manager, you would oversee a wide range of professionals and tasks, including aircraft scheduling, flight plans, maintenance, and crew management.

Is a career in aviation management right for me?

A career in aviation management is ideal for people who enjoy leading teams, solving complex problems and working in dynamic operational environments. You'll need excellent organisational and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to make informed decisions while prioritising safety and efficiency.

Other desirable skills and attributes of an aviation manager include:

Adaptability
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Communication
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Industry knowledge
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
Leadership
The capacity to lead through effective decision-making, accountability, and support for others.
Organisation
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.

Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.

How to become an aviation manager

Generally, becoming an aviation manager involves completing both theoretical and practical training, often through a degree in aviation, aviation management or a related field. Specific requirements may vary depending on your chosen role and career pathway.

Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths to reaching your goals as an aviation manager. Here is one common path to becoming an aviation manager:

  1. Complete a bachelor's degree in aviation, aviation management, business, logistics or a related field.
  2. Gain practical experience in the aviation industry through roles with airlines, airports, aviation service providers or regulatory organisations.
  3. Develop expertise in aviation operations, safety, compliance and workforce management.
  4. Progress into supervisory or team leadership positions with responsibility for coordinating aviation operations and staff.
  5. Advance into an aviation management role overseeing people, resources, safety standards and operational performance.

Accreditation and qualifications

While formal registration is not required for all aviation managers, some positions may require -approved qualifications, regulatory compliance training or other industry-specific credentials.

How long does it take to become an aviation manager?

The time it takes to become an aviation manager can vary depending on your career pathway. Many aviation managers complete a three year bachelor's degree in aviation or a related field and gain several years of industry experience before progressing into management positions. Most people can expect the journey to take around five to eight years.

Start your journey with 91²Ö¿â

Launch your aviation management career with a 91²Ö¿â aviation degree and gain the operational, leadership and problem-solving skills sought by employers across the aviation industry.

Aviation degrees
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Responsibilities and work settings

Day-to-day responsibilities

Overseeing aviation operations and flight-related activities.

Coordinating staff, schedules and operational resources.

Maintaining safety, compliance and regulatory standards.

Managing budgets, planning and operational performance.

Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Where you might work

Aviation, transport and logistics organisations

Government agencies, departments and councils

Defence forces and defence contractors

Engineering consultancies

Telecommunications providers

Aviation manager FAQs

An aviation management salary varies based on factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting. Refer to the salary information on this page for further details.

Careers in aviation management can be challenging due to the complexity of the aviation industry and the critical nature of many of the tasks involved. Success in this field requires a solid understanding of aviation operations, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. However, for those passionate about aviation and skilled in management, an aviation manager career path can be an extremely rewarding career.

With a degree in aviation management, you are well-prepared for various careers in the aviation management and aviation industry, including:

  • airport operations manager
  • airline manager
  • aviation safety consultant
  • air traffic controller
  • airfield operations specialist
  • aviation policy analyst
  • aviation customer relations manager.

These roles involve a mix of strategic planning, operational oversight, and collaboration with a range of aviation professionals to ensure efficient and safe airline and airport operations.

The future demand for aviation managers is moderate and promising, reflecting the growth and recovery of the aviation industry, especially after periods of downturn. The need for skilled aviation managers is driven by ongoing developments in air travel, regulatory changes, and the continuous push for improved safety and efficiency in aviation operations globally.

Becoming an aviation manager in Australia typically requires practical and theoretical training, though exact requirements vary depending on the role and pathway you take.

At 91²Ö¿â, a Bachelor of Aviation (Aviation Management) typically takes around 3 years to complete. At the postgraduate level of study, there are the following options:

It should be noted that some students choose to study part-time, which increases the time it takes to finish the required courses.

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Disclaimer: 91²Ö¿â’s Career Finder is a guide only. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, career information may change over time. Career statistics are sourced from and . © Commonwealth of Australia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. Salary figures listed on this page are in Australian Dollars (AUD).