Aircraft Dispatcher Education and Other Important Information
Along with the pilot of the airplane, an FAA Certified aircraft dispatcher has legal responsibility for planning every Part 121 domestic and flag flight, and safe completion of passenger aircraft travel. The job of aircraft dispatcher is one that tends to be out of sight, and somewhat out of mind, for most people who use and benefit from airline travel. However, for those who’ve considered a career in airline transportation, the work of aircraft dispatcher is often an ideal option. The pay, especially at larger airlines, is usually superior to many other positions in the airline, and job security is strong for motivated and hard-working individuals. The job is in steady demand, and well-trained individuals, such as those who have graduated from Sheffield School of Aeronautics, generally find a variety of positions open to them upon course completion.
Education of An Aircraft Dispatcher
Beyond the aircraft dispatcher certificate training programs available, some schools stand out for providing educational experiences that prepare students for real world situations. All FAA-approved schools follow somewhat similar course materials and prepare for the same standardized test. However, only a few schools feature outstanding educational opportunities. This includes tools that students will need to learn for practical experience in the world of flight operations.
The leading schools in the industry feature real world training opportunities during the educational process, such as individual work stations with computers for flight planning, weather retrieval, and live flight traffic observation. Schools that feature the best tools and educational methods excel beyond the other choices available. The investment is highly likely to return practical results in career development from the educational process.
Coursework and Studies
Questions may come from people who are considering pursuing an aircraft dispatcher training program. How long does program take to complete? How much is the cost of the education? What are some career options that come with training? The training program is usually completed in several weeks, or few months. There’s a lot to learn for those without any aviation background. A motivated and hard-working individual can acquire all the needed knowledge to do the job of aircraft dispatcher in the time allowed for training.
The coursework is very thorough, and covers FAA mandated topics such as:
- Meteorology (Basic and Advanced Aviation Weather)
- Aeronautical Information Manual
- Navigation
- Communications
- Federal Aviation Regulations
- Aircraft and Engine Performance
- Systems and Limitations
- Instrument Approach Procedures
A top school will feature educational opportunities and materials that exceed minimum standards. Like Sheffield, a top school will provide students with practical experience in understanding the industry and the challenges that they will face in the real world. All schools are not equal, and even if they meet the same FAA standards, they may not cover the same range of materials. However, Sheffield School of Aeronautics offers thorough and complete education for a variety of aviation positions.
Survey the Options
Before making a choice on aircraft dispatcher training programs, it makes sense to carefully weigh your options. There are a variety of schools with widely ranging tuition costs, schedules, and training systems. The most effective schools will give students practical knowledge that can help them succeed, not just on the tests and examinations required to become certified, but with real world situations that are bound to occur.
Top schools will have trainers and teachers who have experienced the actual world of aircraft dispatchers and can explain to students what they will need to know. It is worth the effort to make a choice of an investment in an education that will serve the graduate well in the industry, such as one from a reputable dispatcher school like Sheffield School of Aeronautics.