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