This strategic role supports the Network Planning team in creating, optimizing and implementing Atlas Air’s global flight network & schedule to maximize fleet utilization, profitability, operational reliability and customer satisfaction. Based in the UK, the Operations Planner will play a critical role in the development, coordination, and communication of the airline’s global schedule—including Scheduled Services, ACMI/CMI, and charter (passenger/cargo) operations, as well as the Boeing/Dream lifter program. The role requires direct coordination with customers and strong collaboration internally with cross-functional teams across multiple time zones and may involve leading or supporting special projects.
Responsibilities
* Coordinate directly with Atlas Air customers in region, serving as primary contact to implement and optimize flight schedules including seasonal schedules, ad-hoc schedules and any requested adjustments
* Develop and implement seasonal and ad hoc flight schedules, factoring in aircraft performance, maintenance windows, crew and ground handling availability, regulatory constraints, and airport limitations
* Determine feasibility of customer requests, communicate pricing or change cost impacts to customers and internal stakeholders resulting from schedule amendments or special requests
* Assign aircraft types and tail numbers to routes with the goal of maximizing block hour utilization, enhancing service reliability and minimizing operational costs
* Act as the regional interface between Network Planning and other departments, ensuring timely communication of scheduling decisions and changes to ensure operational robustness
* Adjust, experiment with scheduling strategies based on commercial, operational performance and feedback
* Maintain accuracy in the AIMS system database, including data related to block times, curfews, tail assignments, aircraft registrations, customer codes, adherence to Atlas Air’s operational parameters
* Support Network Planning Team with flight coding, slot coordination, new service launches, peak period planning, and continuous improvement initiatives
* Collaborate across regions to ensure the integrity and feasibility of the global operating schedule
Qualifications
* Bachelor’s degree required, with a preferred focus in aviation or similar (economics, engineering, mathematics)
* 5+ years of airline network planning, scheduling or related experience
* Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making capabilities; creative, able to visualize scenarios, formulate optimal outcomes and make sound decisions accounting for dynamic operational parameters
* Collaborative style: excellent communication, facilitation, resolution and leadership skills
* Organized; focused; high attention to detail and operational feasibility
* Works independently with minimal direction; manages priorities and meets deadlines in a fast paced, high-pressure environment
* Strategic thinker, with commercial mindset, placing high emphasis on customer service
* Proficient in MS Office Suite and network scheduling tools (Atlas Air uses AIMS); world geography familiarity a plus
* Schedule flexibility including 24/7 on-call availability
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