Director Flight Operations

Overview

The Director of Flight Operations provides strategic leadership, ensures operational oversight, and maintains regulatory adherence across all flight operations activities. The role focuses on ensuring safe, effective, cost-efficient, and fully compliant airline operations aligned with ICAO SARPS, CAAB regulations, IOSA audit standards, and key airline turnaround goals. This senior executive position designated as the AOC Postholder is critical for restoring operational stability by optimizing aircraft utilization, crew productivity, cost control, and regulatory compliance. Reporting to the General Manager and sitting on the Executive Committee, the Director commands operational authority to transform fleet and crew resources into safe, reliable, and financially sustainable flight operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage real-time operational control including disruption resolution and network coordination.
• Develop and implement flight operations strategies supporting the airline's turnaround objectives.
• Guarantee compliance with all mandatory training and pilot licensing standards.
• Optimize crew deployment and ensure lawful dispatch procedures.
• Deliver safe, regulation-compliant, and customer-oriented cabin operations.
• Oversee performance appraisals linked to KPIs, competency evaluations, line checks, and proficiency assessments.
• Promote data-driven improvements to operational efficiency.
• Maintain an uncompromising commitment to safety and compliance.
• Ensure all operational documentation is current and regulatory compliant.
• Fulfill responsibilities as the AOC Postholder for flight operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Science, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• ICAO English Proficiency Level 4 certificate and medical fitness certificate.
• Mandatory possession of Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).
• Other ICAO-recognized certifications; Safety Management System (SMS) and IOSA certifications are advantageous.

Experience Requirements

• At least 10 to 15 years of relevant experience after certification, including a minimum of five years in senior leadership roles such as Chief Pilot or Flight Operations Manager.
• Proven involvement in an AOC regulatory environment and IOSA audit processes.
• Experience managing multi-fleet or regional airline operations.
• Background in operational turnaround or restructuring is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10,000 flying hours as Captain on large aircraft, as defined by the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana.

Application Details

• Applicants must submit a detailed CV, cover letter expressing suitability and interest, and contact details for three professional referees.
• All applications are to be submitted online.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Consent is provided to the company to process personal and professional data for recruitment, including background verification as per data protection laws.
• Closing date for applications is 15 May 2026 at 16:30.

Contact Information

Air Botswana Head Office, Airport Road, P.O. Box 92, Gaborone, Botswana.
Call Centre/WhatsApp: +267 368 0900 / 77 019 076