FLIGHT DISPATCHER
A flight dispatcher, alternatively known as an airline dispatcher or flight operations officer, plays a crucial role in flight planning. Their responsibilities encompass charting flight routes, considering various factors like aircraft availability, performance, load capacity, enroute weather conditions, potential thunderstorms, turbulence forecasts, airspace restrictions, and airport conditions. Dispatchers also offer continuous flight monitoring services and communicate any necessary updates to pilots. Their ultimate goal is to ensure the punctuality and smooth operation of all airline flights.
This profession demands precision, as dispatchers must accurately forecast variables such as weather patterns and passenger volumes that could impact flight paths and destinations. Since flight cancellations or delays can have cascading effects on connecting flights and travelers’ plans, dispatchers must make rapid decisions that impact not only flight crews but also passengers. In all scenarios, dispatchers are expected to make optimal decisions while adhering to relevant regulations.
Flight dispatchers typically work within airline operations centers, often facing time constraints and various distractions. Therefore, the ability to remain composed, organized, and think clearly under pressure is of paramount importance. These professionals typically adhere to regular shifts.
For trainee dispatchers entering the field, an initial salary of Rs 70,000/- is common, with opportunities for advancement in line with industry standards.
Responsibilities
Gather the most up-to-date meteorological data and conduct an analysis of how weather conditions will impact the planned route, the destination, and potential alternative aerodromes.
Collect and review the latest information on various aspects such as standard instrument departures, en-route facilities, noise abatement operational procedures, navigation aids, aerodrome facilities, air traffic control (ATC) procedures, communication protocols, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), runway conditions, search and rescue capabilities, and any other pertinent information or regulations that could affect the flight. Ensure that the flight crew is briefed on this information as necessary.
Create an operational flight plan that aligns with standard instrument departures, noise abatement procedures, ATC regulations, and the regulatory requirements of all the states that the flight will pass through.
In cases where it is deemed necessary due to anticipated weather conditions, make decisions regarding flight delays, cancellations, or route adjustments.
Conduct a thorough meteorological briefing for the flight crew, ensuring they are informed about current weather conditions and any relevant updates.
Prepare and submit the ATC flight plan in accordance with established procedures.
In the event of an emergency situation, initiate the prescribed procedures as outlined in the operations manual and promptly relay pertinent information to the pilot-in-command.
Training Overview
The training prerequisites for Flight Dispatchers are outlined in DGCA CAR 7, Series M Part II. Aspiring candidates have the option of pursuing their training within India or abroad in an ICAO contracting state. If opting for training abroad, candidates must adhere to the DGCA syllabus and subsequently apply for license conversion upon returning to India.
In practice, the majority of candidates undergo Flight Dispatcher Training through airlines in India that possess DGCA approval for conducting such training. Typically, these airlines recruit, train, and license their own personnel through a bond-type agreement. Candidates with prior experience in airline, airport, or ground handling operations, who are familiar with crew dynamics, scheduling, and engineering constraints and their implications, are typically preferred. After meeting the necessary requirements, these individuals are approved by the DGCA to serve as Flight Dispatchers.
Moreover, meteorologists employed within dispatch organizations, air traffic controllers, and pilots holding valid CPL/ATPL licenses may also be eligible for a Flight Dispatcher license, with certain requirements reduced due to their existing qualifications.
Training is divided in 2 parts:
1. Initial training – Required for the persons who have not previously carried out flight dispatch duties
2. Type training – Required to gain qualification on the aircraft model and its variants that the flight dispatcher will be assigned on.
Initial training is further divided in 2 parts:
1. Basic theoretical knowledge on aviation subjects.
2. Applied Practical Training comprising of:
- Applied practical flight operations,
- Route familiarization on actual Aircraft,
- Flight dispatch functions (on job training),
- Simulator LOFT observation.
Eligibility
Process
Initial Ground Training
360 hours or 12 weeks of Ground Classes. Exemption: Following candidates don’t need Initial Ground Training Pilot holding a valid CPL/ATPL, Air traffic controller, Meteorologist with a total of two years of service. Candidates with at least one year as an assistant in the dispatching of air transport.
Route Familiarization
25 hours on actual aircraft in preceding 12 months. Flight dispatcher must be able to monitor the flight crew intercommunication system and radio communications, and be able to observe the actions of the flight crew. The flight should include landings at as many aerodromes as practicable;
On Job Training
90 working days (within 6 months of viva) (Exemptions - Candidates holding Foreign ICAO Flight Dispatcher License may be given credit of up to 8 weeks)
DGCA License
DGCA Flight Dispatcher License valid for 5 years
DGCA/TRTO Exam Passing 70%
Air Navigation Meteorology Aircraft Systems & Performance Weight & Balance Flight Planning Air Regulations Emergency Procedures Radio Telephony Restricted (RTR) Aircraft Specific (Exemption - Pilots holding a valid CPL/ATPL are only required to qualify in Technical Specific Examination including Performance)
Applied Practical Training
1 Day (within 6 months of viva)
Simulator Observation
4 hours
Oral and practical test
Oral/practical test to demonstrate their proficiency to a Board at FSD, DGCA
Recruitment
Companies generally conduct walk-in Interviews. Preferred qualifications: Microsoft Office applications SITA and Radio Telephony procedures IATA Ramp handling course IATA load control course Ramp driving license Dangerous Goods handling Ramp safety qualification
Additional Trainings
Ground Training Modules
Air law
Aircraft General Knowledge
limitations of aeroplanes and engines
Aerodrome Operating Minima
Crew Administration – FDTL
Crew Briefing / Advisory Informations / In-flight follow up Procedures
Flight performance
Planning procedures
ETOPS. RVSM, RNP
Weight and balance
Operational flight planning
Minimum equipment list
Human performance
Aeronautical meteorology
Navigation
Use of aeronautical documentation
Dangerous goods regulation
Aircraft accidents and incidents
Unlawful interference and sabotage of aircraft
Principles of flight
Radio communication
Airport Operations
Aviation Security
