Network Planning Specialist at FlySafair

Description

• Develop routes to enhance network coverage optimisation;
• Design flight schedules that maximise aircraft and crew utilisation while minimising operational costs;
• Determine the frequency and timing of flights to optimise availability and On-Time Performance (OTP);
• Utilise advanced network planning software and analytical tools to fine-tune schedules and improve operational efficiency;
• Collaborate with fleet management teams to align route planning with aircraft availability and capabilities;
• Determine the optimal allocation of aircraft types to specific routes based on factors such as capacity, range and market demand;
• Facilitate interdepartmental communications to address all schedule and aircraft-related planning and requirements;
• Undertake long-term aircraft planning and management to ensure technical and other operational requirements are considered;
• Attend Technical meetings to ensure proactive planning for aircraft availability and configuration changes, in order to ensure optimal fleet operations;
• Coordinate charter, supplementary and additional flight requests or schedule changes with Commercial and relevant stakeholders;
• Assess and mitigate risks associated with route development, schedule changes and operational disruptions;
• Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation to address unforeseen events and minimise the impact on network operations;
• Ensure and process seasonal, ad hoc and additional slot applications within prescribed deadlines, monitor slot allocation and utilisation, and facilitate adjustments in line with schedule changes and operational requirements;
• Ensure schedules align with approved slots, resolve discrepancies, maintain records, protect historic rights and share regular slot reports with stakeholders;
• Participate in the Fatigue Safety Action Group as required;
• Ensure accurate Flight and Duty Period (FDP) calculations during schedule planning, in accordance with applicable SACAA regulations;
• Provide monthly reports/stats to management as required;
• Manage Winter and Summer schedule planning and provide relevant reports;
• Act as the Project Ambassador for Scheduling.

Requirements

• Grade 12 or equivalent (Essential);
• Relevant degree (NQF Level 7) (Essential);
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in an Aviation Operations environment and/or relevant qualification (Essential);
• Experience of AIMS software (Advantageous);
• Willing and able to work after hours if required;
• Flight and duty knowledge for Crew;
• Excellent understanding of Schedule Planning;
• Knowledge of sector pairings;
• Working knowledge of the AIP, including amendments and supplements, to verify relevant operational requirements;
• Knowledge of Maintenance schedules (Short and long term);
• Knowledge of Airport slot management;
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel and Outlook) (Essential);
• Excellent communication skills (Essential);
• Attention to detail;
• Organised and systematic;
• Excellent interpersonal skills;
• Creative problem solver;
• Strategic thinking;
• Leadership skills;
• Good time management;
• Analytical skills. 

Personal Attributes:

• Professional;
• High integrity;
• Able to work under extreme pressure and short deadlines;
• Collaborator;
• Team player;
• Reliable and dependable;
• Adaptable;
• Proactive;
• Confident and assertive.