Network Planning Specialist
FlySafair
2026/10/01   JHB


Job Ref #: OCC_Networkplanningspecialist02
Industry: Aviation
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Safair Operations, operating as FlySafair has a vacancy for a Network Planning Specialist at our Head Office in Bonearo Park. The successful applicant will report to the Operations Control Centre Manager.
Job Description
  • Develop routes to enhance network coverage optimisation;
  • Design flight schedules that maximise aircraft and crew utilisation while minimising operational costs;
  • Determine the frequency and timing of flights to optimise availability and On-Time Performance (OTP);
  • Utilise advanced network planning software and analytical tools to fine-tune schedules and improve operational efficiency;
  • Collaborate with fleet management teams to align route planning with aircraft availability and capabilities;
  • Determine the optimal allocation of aircraft types to specific routes based on factors such as capacity, range and market demand;
  • Facilitate interdepartmental communications to address all schedule and aircraft-related planning and requirements;
  • Undertake long-term aircraft planning and management to ensure technical and other operational requirements are considered;
  • Attend Technical meetings to ensure proactive planning for aircraft availability and configuration changes, in order to ensure optimal fleet operations;
  • Coordinate charter, supplementary and additional flight requests or schedule changes with Commercial and relevant stakeholders;
  • Assess and mitigate risks associated with route development, schedule changes and operational disruptions;
  • Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation to address unforeseen events and minimise the impact on network operations;
  • Ensure and process seasonal, ad hoc and additional slot applications within prescribed deadlines, monitor slot allocation and utilisation, and facilitate adjustments in line with schedule changes and operational requirements;
  • Ensure schedules align with approved slots, resolve discrepancies, maintain records, protect historic rights and share regular slot reports with stakeholders;
  • Participate in the Fatigue Safety Action Group as required;
  • Ensure accurate Flight and Duty Period (FDP) calculations during schedule planning, in accordance with applicable SACAA regulations;
  • Provide monthly reports/stats to management as required;
  • Manage Winter and Summer schedule planning and provide relevant reports;
  • Act as the Project Ambassador for Scheduling.
Job Requirements
  • Grade 12 or equivalent (Essential);
  • Relevant degree (NQF Level 7) (Essential);
  • Minimum of 5 years' experience in an Aviation Operations environment and/or relevant qualification (Essential);
  • Experience of AIMS software (Advantageous);
  • Willing and able to work after hours if required;
  • Flight and duty knowledge for Crew;
  • Excellent understanding of Schedule Planning;
  • Knowledge of sector pairings;
  • Working knowledge of the AIP, including amendments and supplements, to verify relevant operational requirements;
  • Knowledge of Maintenance schedules (Short and long term);
  • Knowledge of Airport slot management;
  • Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel and Outlook) (Essential);
  • Excellent communication skills (Essential);
  • Attention to detail;
  • Organised and systematic;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills;
  • Creative problem solver;
  • Strategic thinking;
  • Leadership skills;
  • Good time management;
  • Analytical skills. 

Personal Attributes:

  • Professional;
  • High integrity;
  • Able to work under extreme pressure and short deadlines;
  • Collaborator;
  • Team player;
  • Reliable and dependable;
  • Adaptable;
  • Proactive;
  • Confident and assertive.

Application guideline:

  • Email applications will not be accepted;
  • Preference will be given to members of under-represented designated groups;
  • Should no feedback be provided within two (2) weeks from the closing date, please consider your application as unsuccessful.

FlySafair reserves the right:

  • Not to proceed with this vacancy;
  • To appoint the selected candidates based on its operational requirements.

Closing Date: 09 October 2026