Are you looking to pursue a career in aviation and want to get started as soon as possible? If so, then coming here was a step in the right direction. Among the growing opportunities in aviation are the rise of aircraft dispatcher jobs. Aircraft dispatchers hold the important role of planning flight paths, considering aircraft performance and loading, enroute winds, thunderstorm and turbulence forecasts, airspace restrictions, and airport conditions.
Along with the pilot, those individuals occupying aircraft dispatcher jobs are responsible for 50% of the decision-making process and safety of the flight. Needless to say, only those who are properly trained are up to the task. So where does one go to get started with becoming an aircraft dispatcher?
There are two ways to become a flight dispatcher. One is to possess 2 years of approved recent experience in relation to aviation, such as in an air traffic controller, pilot, or meteorologist role. The other is to complete an FAA approved aircraft dispatcher training course and to do that, you must attend an accredited aircraft dispatcher school.
The easiest path is to attend an aircraft dispatcher school and obtain licensure if you’re over the age of 23. Anyone between the ages of 21-23 will still be able to take the licensure course and FAA practical test, but they will only be recognized as aeronautical competent and won’t receive licensure until they turn 23. Before taking the practical exam, applicants must take the written exam to display knowledge of aviation procedures, regulations and policies. The practical test (which must be taken within 2 years of passing the knowledge test) will demonstrate an applicant’s ability to implement risk-management and security procedures and to recognize hazardous weather conditions.
Upon completion of both exams and obtaining licensure, you’re all set to seek one of the many aircraft dispatcher jobs at an airline!