Head of Airside Operations

Head – Airside Operations

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning:

Lead the strategic planning for airside operations for regional airports by identifying future needs and opportunities to enhance operational capacity, efficiency, and safety. Align with airport growth objectives and industry trends to ensure airside infrastructure, processes, and staffing are optimized for scalability. Collaborate with executive leadership to forecast and plan for airside improvements, ensuring alignment with the airport's overall strategic goals.

Ensuring Compliance and Operational Maintenance:

Ensure all airside operations adhere to the conditions set forth in the aerodrome license and adhere to national and international aviation safety standards and regulations.

Oversee the maintenance and operational integrity of critical airside infrastructure such as Taxiways, Runways, Aprons, Airside Gates and Pavements.

Aerodrome Planning and Development:

Lead aerodrome planning projects focused on capacity enhancement and master planning initiatives.

Develop a comprehensive master plan that outlines the long-term vision for the aerodrome, considering future traffic growth, technological advancements, and regulatory changes.

Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment with industry standards and future growth needs.

Oversee Ground Handling Operations:

Ensure efficient management of ground handling operations is critical for minimizing aircraft turnaround time and ensuring timely departures and arrivals.

Coordinate with ground handling service providers to ensure adherence to schedules and to manage ground support equipment and ensure it is well-maintained and operational.

Oversee Aircraft Movements:

Ensures the safe and efficient movement of aircraft on the ground, including take-off, landing, and taxiing, coordinate with air traffic control (ATC) to manage aircraft movements. Monitor and maintain obstacle limitation surfaces to ensure they remain free from obstructions

Develop and implement standard operating procedures for aircraft taxiing and parking, monitor and manage aircraft stands and gates to optimize usage and to ensure clear communication between pilots, ATC, and ground crews.

Responding to Emergencies:

Develop and implement comprehensive emergency response plans, conduct regular drills, and ensure all airside staff are trained in emergency procedures.

Maintain CAT-7 firefighting capability and Implement timely preparations for monsoon and Low Visibility Procedures (LVP).

Coordinate with airport emergency services and external agencies, manage communication during emergencies, and conduct post-incident analysis for future improvements.

Budget and Resource Allocation:

Oversee the airside operations budget, ensuring effective resource allocation for manpower, equipment, and infrastructure.

Implement cost optimization initiatives to improve operational efficiency within budget constraints.

Stakeholder Management:

Maintain effective communication and relationships with key stakeholders such as Airports Authority of India (AAI), Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airlines and Ground Handlers.

Facilitate regular meetings to discuss operational concerns and improvements.

Team Leadership and Development:

Effective management of airside personnel is essential for maintaining high operational standards and safety.

Cultivate a high-performing team through mentorship, training, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Brand Positioning:

Uphold Adani's brand values in all interactions and build strong relationships to fortify brand trust and loyalty.

Digital Mindset:

Keep up with digital and AI advancements to enhance business and maintain competitiveness.

Embracing a digital mindset to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and improve overall operational effectiveness.

Key Stakeholders - Internal:

Chief Airport Officer

Air Traffic Control (ATC)

Ground Handling Teams

Terminal Operations Team

Facilities Team

Airport Security

Maintenance and Engineering Department

Customer Service Teams

IT Department

Safety and Compliance Department

Marketing and Communications Department

Key Stakeholders - External:

Airlines

Regulatory Authorities (e.g., FAA, ICAO)

Ground Handling Service Providers

ATC

Local Emergency Services

Passengers

Cargo Operators

Fuel Suppliers

Vendors and Contractors

Qualifications

Educational Qualification:

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master's degree or specialized certifications in aviation safety, operations management, or a related discipline is preferred.

Certification:

Airport Operations Management Certification

Air Traffic Management Certification

Emergency Response Planning Certification

Work Experience:

15+ years of experience in airport operations with at least 7 - 10 years proven expertise in safety compliance, ground handling, airfield maintenance and emergency response is essential.