Job Specifications for an Aircraft Dispatcher:
In the world of aviation, an Aircraft Dispatcher plays a crucial role, often referred to as the "pilot on the ground." This article outlines the steps and requirements to become a certified Aircraft Dispatcher in the United States.
First and foremost, candidates must meet the minimum age requirement of 23 years old and possess strong English proficiency. The ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently is essential for the job.
Next, completion of an FAA-certified aircraft dispatcher training program is required. This program involves at least 198 hours of classroom instruction, covering topics such as meteorology, flight planning, and aviation regulations. The FAA has a comprehensive list of approved training providers as of 2023. Earning your dispatcher's license takes around six weeks and roughly $6,000.
After training, candidates must pass both a knowledge exam and a practical exam. The knowledge exam is a computer-based test assessing understanding of aviation operations and meteorology, while the practical exam requires the candidate to demonstrate the ability to safely plan and dispatch flights, as required by FAA regulations.
Candidates must also pass an FAA-required 10-year work history review, along with criminal background and fingerprint checks. Some apprenticeship programs may require candidates to commit to working as a dispatcher for a minimum period (e.g., two years) after certification, or risk repaying training costs.
Additional requirements may include the possession of a valid U.S. passport and the ability to attend full-time training without disruption (six to eight weeks typically).
As an Aircraft Dispatcher, you will be responsible for planning flights from start to finish, including gathering weather information, focusing on navigation equipment, calculating fuel requirements, and filing the flight plan. You will also monitor the aircraft's status in the air and on the ground, communicate with pilots about weather, turbulence, and other variables, and amend the flight schedule in the event of delays or cancellations.
Starting salaries for entry-level Aircraft Dispatchers can range from $20,000 to $30,000 a year, while experienced dispatchers at major carriers can expect to earn a six-figure salary. With three to four years of experience, a dispatcher can earn between $35,000 and $70,000. Salaries at major carriers for Aircraft Dispatchers start at $60,000 and can increase to upwards of $175,000.
In summary, becoming a certified Aircraft Dispatcher involves meeting the minimum age, English proficiency, completing an FAA-approved training program, passing knowledge and practical exams, and clearing security and background checks. Apprenticeship programs may add commitments and additional selection criteria. This certification enables the individual to legally perform dispatch functions ensuring safe and efficient flight operations.
Candidates seeking to work in the aerospace industry, specifically as Aircraft Dispatchers, need to have a strong background in finance, as earning a dispatcher's license can cost upwards of $6,000. Moreover, in their professional roles, Aircraft Dispatchers heavily rely on technological advancements, utilizing aviation regulations, navigation equipment, and meteorological data to plan and dispatch flights effectively.
