International Operations Subject Matter Expert-Flight Planning and Handling
Since 1967, Jet Aviation has been crafting flight in its smoothest form. From one hangar in Basel, Switzerland, to over 4,500 employees, and some 50 locations worldwide. Aircraft Management, Aircraft Sales, Charter, Completions, Government Services, FBO, Fixed and Rotary Wing Maintenance, and Staffing. Behind every seamless Jet Aviation experience, is a team of dedicated professionals perfecting the art of flight. The artisans of aviation. The craft that brings our customers’ journey to life. In the hangar, on the ground, and behind the scenes. Enabling global flight, with passion.
Position Summary
The International Operations Subject Matter Expert (SME) plays a critical role in supporting global flight operations with a focus on international flight planning, handling, and regulatory compliance. This position provides expert guidance on overflight and landing permits, route planning, airspace restrictions, customs and immigration procedures, and operational requirements across diverse international regions. Acting as a key resource for both internal teams and external partners, the SME ensures that all international trips are planned and executed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with applicable regulations.
The role requires deep operational knowledge of international business aviation, strong coordination with dispatch, flight crews, and vendors, and the ability to anticipate and resolve issues in dynamic environments. The SME also contributes to internal process development, training, and strategic planning for international operations, supporting both managed aircraft and charter activity under Part 91 and 135 operations.
Minimum Requirements
- 7+ years of experience in international business aviation operations, dispatch, or trip support
- Extensive knowledge of international flight planning, routing, permits, and handling logistics
- Strong understanding of global regulatory frameworks (ICAO, FAA, EASA, CAA, etc.)
- Experience working with international trip support tools and systems (e.g., ARINC Direct, PPS, Jeppesen, Universal, Foreflight or similar)
- FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate or international equivalent preferred
- Experience supporting both Part 91 and Part 135 (or equivalent) operations
- Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively across time zones and cultures
- Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple complex trips simultaneously
- Willingness to work flexible hours and support operations during off-hours when required / And Holidays*
- A deep understanding of international flight operations, planning, and handling
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage high-pressure situations
- A team-oriented mindset with a strong commitment to operational excellence and safety
Main Responsibilities
- Act as the in-house expert for international flight planning, routing, and handling procedures across diverse regions including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and South America
- Provide guidance on overflight and landing permits, airspace restrictions, customs/immigration requirements, and international handling logistics
- Review and advise on flight planning strategies to optimize fuel efficiency, minimize delays, and ensure regulatory compliance
- Stay current on international NOTAMs, FARs, AIP’s, ICAO recommended practices, regulatory updates, and geopolitical risks that may impact flight operations
- Support dispatchers, schedulers, and crews with route selection, alternates, ETOPS considerations, and regulatory questions
- Ensures that all airports and routes are operationally suitable and meet company requirements
- Maintains knowledge of aeronautical navigation systems, charts airspace, air traffic control, air craft performance, AFM, MEL, aeronautical communications and maintains a current operations library.
- Provide training and internal documentation to support team members handling international trips
- Assist with irregular operations management, including diversions, weather issues, and diplomatic clearances
- Collaborate with safety, compliance, and flight standards teams to ensure best practices and adherence to international regulations
- Advise on international regulations, overflight/landing permits, parking, customs, and handling requirements for charter and managed aircraft / And International flight restrictions and updates from civil/military authorities for those countries.
- Serve as the go-to expert for complex trip planning and execution across multiple regulatory environments
- Collaborate with sales, dispatch, flight crews, and clients to ensure smooth and compliant international operations
- Review and improve SOPs related to international operations, including risk assessment and client communication. Actively participates in safety management system.
- Assists in maintaining international compliance with fleet updates and monthly reports to EASA, EuroControl, NavCanada, SENEAM and all other concerned foreign agencies.
- Assumes any additional duties delegated by the Senior Manager Dispatch/Director of Operations.
Desired Characteristics
- Organized and Detail-Oriented:
A highly organized individual with an acute attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. - Collaborative and Relationship-Oriented:
A natural collaborator who fosters strong relationships across the organization and works well in team-oriented environments. - Action-Oriented and Results-Driven:
Demonstrated ability to execute plans and achieve outcomes, with a focus on delivering results that contribute to business success. - Passion for Excellence:
A commitment to continuous improvement and a passion for excellence, ensuring the delivery of high-quality results in every project. - Strong personal values corresponding with Jet Aviation values (Trust, Honesty, Alignment, Transparency)
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk or sit. The employee is occasionally required to climbs or balance, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds over their heads. Specific vision required for this job include, close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust and focus.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The employee must be able to work in both a heavy maintenance environment and in upscale customer areas. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate with occasional high volume when aircrafts arrive/depart. The employee is frequently exposed to vibration. Occasional fuel fumes may permeate the workplace. Employee must be willing and able to work in all types of weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. The Hangar environment may be extreme hot and cold during certain seasons of the year.
At Jet Aviation eligible employees can enjoy a comprehensive package that fuels your passions both inside and outside of work. Your health and well-being matter to us. That’s why we offer a competitive benefit package that includes health, dental & vision insurance, matching 401(k), health savings and flexible spending accounts, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, employee assistance programs, health and wellness awards, generous paid time off, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts and more.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans