Aviation And Aerospace Engineering Year 1

SECTION

4 THE AVIATION
INDUSTRY

1
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

Aviation Industry
The Aviation Profession and Operations

INTRODUCTION
The aviation industry refers not just to occupations directly involved with the aircraft
but also to all the professions that make it possible for air travel to remain pleasant,
safe, and secure. The essence of this section is to expose you to the various professions
in the aviation industry you yearn to become someday and how they all work together
to ensure smooth and safe operations of air travel. We shall look at the roles of
each, the learning pathways through which you may qualify to work in the various
fields of aviation as well as how all these professionals work together to ensure the
manufacturing and smooth running of aeroplanes by the airlines for passenger safety
and carriage of cargo.

At the end of this section, you will be able to:

Describe the various career paths in the aviation industry.

Key Ideas:
• Career is progress and actions you have taken throughout your working life.
• Learning pathways are the courses, programs, and experiences that students complete
as they progress toward graduation to attain a skill or venture into a career.
• Profession is a type of occupation that requires specialised training, education, and
often certification or license.
• Coordination is organising people or groups so that they work together to achieve a
goal.

2
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

INTRODUCTION TO AVIATION CAREERS, THEIR

ROLES AND LEARNING PATHWAYS
The following are the careers in Aviation, their roles and the career pathways that may
lead one to such careers.

Pilot
Pilots are responsible for flying and navigating helicopters, aeroplanes, and other kinds
of aircraft. They may transport passengers and cargo, dust crops, operate sightseeing
tours and assist in rescue and fire-fighting operations. Their job is challenging, as they
must fly in varying weather conditions into many unfamiliar airports. They must have
good concentration and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. Pilots may
fly for an airline, where they oversee “large” aircraft carrying several people. Other
commercial pilots fly missions like banner towing [this is where aircraft are used for
advertising or displaying information whilst the plane is in flight], real estate surveying
and power line inspections. Then there are the private pilots who fly for recreation
or personal transport. Test pilots fly new/prototype aircraft to test their performance.
Theirs is an interesting endeavour as they push the plane to the limits of its design
strength and performance capabilities.

Roles
1. Create a flight plan, considering aircraft performance, altitude, and weather
conditions.
2. Check the aircraft before every flight (engines, radars, navigation systems, etc.).
3. Ensure cargo weight does not exceed aircraft limits.
4. Communicate with air traffic control to ensure safe take-off and landing.
5. Ensure the aircraft has adequate fuel supplies.
6. Monitor cockpit instruments like altimeters and speed indicators and report any
malfunctions.
7. Check the aeroplane’s position, weather conditions and air traffic regularly during
the flight and determine change of path when needed.
8. Work closely with flight attendants to ensure all passengers follow safety rules
while on board.
9. Fill out reports about the flight and the status of the aircraft after landing.
10. Test pilots work hand-in-hand with flight test engineers to investigate the
performance characteristics of new/retrofitted aircraft.

Requirements
Airline pilots often require a college degree in aeronautical engineering or a related
discipline. Following this, they must obtain a pilot’s license by undertaking flight

3
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

instruction at a certificated flying school. The training consists of hours of ground school
instruction where students learn the principles of flight, aerial navigation, weather
factors, and flight regulations; and flying lessons, usually conducted in dual-controlled
aircraft. The first step is usually to earn a private pilot’s license after taking written and
flight examinations and passing a third-class medical examination. The private pilot
can then undertake advanced instruction, learn to fly on instruments (fly blind) and
earn a commercial pilot’s license upon acquiring additional hours of flight experience.
With further study and experience, the pilot eventually earns the air transport rating
to qualify as an airline pilot. Some universities offer flight training with credit toward
a degree. Learners who follow this path graduate with a pilot’s license plus a degree.
Another route is obtaining pilot training in the armed forces. This entails no expense
to the learner other than a service obligation for years after training. Ex-military pilots
are usually in high demand in the civil space.

Figure 4.1: A pilot.

Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers are people who have knowledge of the design of both aircraft and
spacecraft—they combine the expertise of aeronautical and astronautical engineers.
They study the science that underlies the behaviour of vehicles within and outside
of the Earth’s atmosphere and develop innovative technologies that aim to improve
the efficiency, safety and security of air and space travel. Aerospace engineers are also
involved in the design of high-speed ballistics including rockets and missiles that often
find application in defence systems.

Roles
1. Develop leading-edge technologies and integrate them into aerospace vehicle
systems used for transportation, communications, exploration, and defence
applications.
2. Involved in the design and manufacturing of aircraft, spacecraft, propulsion
systems, satellites, and missiles.

4
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

3. Supervise the assembly of airframes and the installation of engines, instruments,

and other equipment.
4. Measure and improve the performance of aircraft, components, and systems.
5. Collate information, interpret data and publish the results of specific projects in
technical report form.
6. Communicate technical and regulatory advice to clients, teams, suppliers, and
other professionals within the aerospace industry.

Requirements
An entry-level job in aerospace engineering usually requires a bachelor’s degree,
which is usually obtained at a four-year higher education institution with classes in
aerodynamics, flight dynamics and control, aircraft structures, and propulsion. Some
positions require a master’s degree or to facilitate progression in the organisation. For
learners who would like to be involved with the research and development of modern
technologies and systems, a doctorate degree may also be required.

Figure 4.2: An aerospace engineer at work

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

An aircraft maintenance engineer performs functions like those of automobile
technicians (fitter), except they work on aircraft and aircraft parts. Due to the level
of safety required of air transport, the role of the maintenance engineer cannot be
over-emphasised. They work using manuals developed by aerospace engineers
to troubleshoot and repair/replace aircraft parts. Aircraft maintenance engineers
specialise in one of two areas: the aircraft structure and propulsion system or the
electrical/electronic systems.

Roles
1. Perform preventive maintenance, inspections, adjustments, servicing, and repairs
on airborne equipment.
2. Research, evaluate, and recommend improvements to manufacturing processes,
equipment, and procedures.

5
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

3. Troubleshoot aircraft systems, components, and assemblies.

4. Maintain aircraft logs, records, and records management.
5. Manage the maintenance and repair budget.

Requirements
While a high school diploma is not required to become an apprentice aircraft mechanic,
employers give preference to applicants who are high school or vocational school
graduates. Relevant subjects to pursue while in high school include Mathematics,
Physics, Computer Science, chemistry, English, and Aerospace education courses.
These subjects help the maintenance engineer understand the physical principles
involved in the operation of the aircraft and its systems. It is also necessary that the
aircraft maintenance engineer acquire relevant formal qualifications and complete a
technical training program, which will include written and practical exams to obtain a
license as an avionics or airframe and power plant technician. The aircraft maintenance
engineer is expected to continue their education, even after hiring, to keep abreast of
the continuing technical advancements in aircraft and associated systems.

Figure 3: Aircraft maintenance engineer

Air Cargo Handler

The air cargo handler works for an airline or air freight company. They are responsible
for ensuring that passenger luggage is loaded onto the right aircraft and in an efficient,
safe and secure manner. They also handle the unloading of baggage. Most of their
work is done outdoors in all kinds of weather, and they are usually required to wear a
uniform.

Roles
1. Direct ground crew in the loading, unloading, and securing of aircraft cargo or
baggage.
2. Determine the quantity and orientation of cargo, compute the aircraft centre of
gravity, and sign the load plan or manifest.

6
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

3. Load and unload aircraft, perform preflight and post-flight aircraft checks, and
compute weight and balance.
4. Calculate load weights for different aircraft compartments, using charts and
computers.
5. Operate a variety of equipment, including trucks, forklifts, conveyors, and baggage
tugs.
6. Accompany aircraft as a member of the flight crew to monitor and handle cargo
in flight.

Requirements
Air cargo handler positions are typically entry-level jobs that require little or no prior
training; training is usually done on the job. They must be high school graduates.
Usually, though, the airlines like to see some post-secondary education in either an
academic or vocational field. A qualification in cargo management or training in
shipping offers the learner an advantage.

Figure 4: Cargo handlers at work. Bing images

Air Traffic Controller

The air traffic controller plays a leading role in flight safety. They direct air traffic
so it flows smoothly and efficiently. They monitor aircraft movements and provide
directions/instructions to pilots and other crew members. Air traffic controllers may
be responsible for monitoring the airspace close to airports, for flights en route, and for
controlling ground traffic at the airport.

Roles
1. Inform pilots of any runway closures, harsh weather, or other critical information.
2. Direct pilots through the entire take-off and landing process.
3. Alert the airport response team whenever there is an aircraft emergency.

7
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

4. Give departing flight control to other traffic control centres and receive control of
any arriving flight.
5. Assist in searches for missing aircraft.
6. Compile and analyse data and reports to develop more effective flight plans and
prevent delays.
7. Additional roles include organising searches for missing aeroplanes, controlling
airport lighting, and monitoring all communications in and out of the flight
control tower.

Requirements
A four-year college degree in an aviation-related discipline is usually required for this
position. Candidates study airspace, weather, how to read charts, flight regulations,
clearances, and other similar topics. Beyond this, air traffic controllers are required to
be certified after taking a knowledge test and practical exam. Skills needed for this role
include good communication, attention to detail, and strong concentration.

Figure 5: Air traffic controllers

Flight Dispatcher
A flight dispatcher is an important player in an airline’s operation. They coordinate
all airline flights, consult with the pilots and ground staff, and ensure that all essential
services required for safe flight are provided. Together with the pilot, they are responsible
for signing off the aircraft for flight and keeping all personnel concerned about the
flight’s status informed.

8
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

Roles
1. Monitor aircraft arrivals and departures and amend turnaround schedules if there
are delays.
2. Consult with the ground crew and ensure that tasks, such as cleaning, refuelling,
and loading, are completed on time.
3. Calculating how much fuel is required for the weight of the aircraft and distance
of the journey.
4. Prepare flight paperwork for the crew, such as printing of flight plans, passenger
lists and weather reports.
5. Check that all passengers and luggage are loaded and decide, along with the pilot,
when to close the departure gate.
6. Authorise, together with the pilot, dispatch of the aircraft, and complete all reports
and logs according to company regulations.

Requirements
To become a flight dispatcher, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. A college
degree with a major in air transportation or meteorology is advantageous. Experience
is equally important. The flight dispatcher must be familiar with navigation facilities
over airline routes and at airports as well as with the take-off, cruising, and landing
characteristics of all aircraft operated by the airline.

Figure 6. Flight Dispatcher

Passenger Service Agent

Passenger service agents act as customer service representatives for airline passengers
in the airport. They act as ground hosts and are highly visible and helpful to the public,
assisting passengers to pass through the airport from the ticket counter to boarding.
They are mostly found at ticket counters, gates and baggage areas of the airline they
serve. They answer questions and offer a wide range of information concerning the
airline, flights, and other airport-related topics. They also tend to passengers requiring
special assistance.

9
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

Roles
1. Providing information to passengers about flight times, gate changes, delays, and
other pertinent information.
2. Processing boarding passes, checking identification documents, and directing
passengers to security checkpoints.
3. Coordinating with other ground staff to arrange transportation and hotel
accommodation for passengers who need assistance.
4. Assisting with wheelchair boarding procedures and helping passengers with
disabilities board or disembark from aircraft.
5. Handling customer complaints, helping resolve disputes, and referring problem
cases to supervisors for further attention.
6. Greeting passengers at airports and providing information about flight schedules,
delays, or cancellations.
7. Performing safety checks of aircraft before boarding begins to ensure that
emergency exits are not blocked and that life vests are available if needed.

Requirements
To become a passenger service agent for an airline, a high school diploma is required.
High school classes in reading and reasoning skills enable one to be successful in this
position. An associate degree in subjects like communication or hospitality might
give one an advantage in the hiring process. Learning a foreign language might be
advantageous as well, as passenger service agents work with people from around the
world. It is also necessary to develop customer service skills, through internships, part-
time work, or other entry-level positions in other institutions.

Figure 7: Airline passenger service agent

Airport Security Personnel

Airport security personnel are involved with security procedures at the airport. They
are found throughout the airport and are responsible for identifying and neutralising
security risks at the airport. An airport security manager devises security strategy,

10
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

monitors security and safety procedures and coordinates with other security personnel
to ensure the security of travellers and staff at the airport.

Roles
1. Screen passengers and luggage.
2. Ask security questions of passengers.
3. Direct passengers through security equipment.
4. Report suspicious activity to appropriate authorities.
5. Ensure a safe and respectful environment.
6. Comply with safety measures.
7. Work with passengers to ensure that their needs, as well as security regulations,
are met.

Requirements
Airport security personnel usually require a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Previous airport security experience and having taken courses on criminal justice, law
enforcement or security improves employability and earning potential. After joining
an airline security role, most employees receive field training and gain knowledge of
the protocols and processes involved in airport security while engaging with them
on the job. Airport security personnel undergo strict background checks and receive
designation-specific training before starting work officially.

Figure 8: Airport security personnel

Airport Manager
The airport manager runs the airport. They perform classic managerial duties, such
as coordinating different teams, delegating work, hiring employees, writing reports,
and devising business strategies. They supervise other staff, ensuring that the airport
complies with all regulations. The airport manager also helps to implement new

11
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

strategies and secure contracts with airlines, retailers, security companies and others
involved in day-to-day airport operations.

Figure 9. Airport manager visits an airport.

Roles
1. Manage personnel and operational activities of the airport facility to ensure that
all rules and regulations are followed.
2. Ensure that all airport staff follow aviation and security rules.
3. Provide training to airport staff in safety and emergency procedures.
4. Ensure customer complaints are handled and resolved in a precise and timely
manner.
5. Manage recruitment, training, workload assignment, performance review,
appraisals, and promotions for airport staff.
6. Assist in preparing an annual budget for airport operations and monitoring and
managing all expenses within the approved budget.
7. Develop and implement safety policies and practices for employees.
8. Ensure airport facilities and equipment are in good working order.

Requirements
To become an airport manager, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with
major course work in business, airport or aviation management or a closely related
field is usually required. It is necessary that the airport manager be knowledgeable
in aviation regulations. This position may also be assumed by workers who have had
experience working as airport operations agents.

12
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

Airline Flight Attendant

The flight attendant is the most visible employee to passengers on an aircraft. They
tend to meet a wide variety of needs and requests, offering personalised service to
passengers for the duration of the flight. They spend most of their time in the passenger
cabin and are responsible for the safety and comfort of passengers. Flight attendants
must remain pleasant and provide quality service to passengers.

Roles
1. Provide information, guidance, and assistance for the safety and comfort of
passengers on board the aircraft.
2. Conduct safety checks before the flight.
3. Greet customers, check their tickets, and accompany them to their seats.
4. Prepare and serve drinks and food to passengers.
5. Present emergency equipment and give instructions on their use.
6. Monitor and secure the cabin regularly.
7. Provide special help to passengers with special needs (e.g., children, disabled
persons, elders etc.).

Requirements
To work as a flight attendant, an applicant must hold a high school diploma or its
equivalent, although many airlines prefer a college degree. Flight attendants are
required to complete a training program organised by the airline. Other post-secondary
institutions also offer training for flight attendants. Advanced degrees are often helpful
when pursuing a management or supervisory position.

Figure 10: Flight attendants

13
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

Activity 4.1: Presentation by an Aviation Personnel / Field Trip / Videos

1. A professional from aviation will make a presentation to your class on the

work they do, as well as the academic and professional pathways that can
lead one to these careers.
2. Go on a field trip to a nearby airport or aviation facility to learn what the
personnel there do.
3. Watch the following videos:
Aviation Jobs in Airports and Airlines
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeVx9agJtmw

Aviation jobs – catch your dream.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkGcvvqQ4Pw

In either activity, make sure you take notes as you will make presentations on
them later. If you get to the aviation facility, make sure to adhere to all safety
guidelines provided. Let your teacher know in advance if there are any challenges
you may have while performing the tasks above. After the performing tasks above,
you will be required to do the following:
a. Develop a set of flashcards with the name of an aviation career on one side
and the roles performed by that career on the other. (See example below).

14
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

b. You may use the following:

i. Cardboard, sticky notes, or plain sheets
ii. Marker, pencil, or pen
iii. Poster colours
iv. Artist brushes
v. Eraser
vi. Crayons.
c. Present your work to your teacher.
d. Share your work with your friends.
e. Explain to the class any profession your teacher asks you to.
After the class presentation, your teacher may ask you to paste your flashcards
on the classroom walls.

Activity 4.2: Flow Chart

1. Your teacher will put you into groups.

2. In your group, develop a chart that traces the educational progression from
high school through to professional institutions in the aviation industry.
3. You may use the following:
a. Flip chart, cardboard, plain sheets.
b. Colour markers, pencils, pen.
c. Rulers
d. Eraser
e. Paper clips
f. Push pins
g. Scissors
h. Knife.
4. Your group will be asked to explain the information on your flashcard to the
whole class.
5. Share your work with other groups after the presentation.

15
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

COORDINATION IN AVIATION
The aviation industry and all professions in it do not work exclusively for each other.
There is always coordination and cohesion between them. Our focus here will be on
how they work together to ensure smooth and safe travel.
1. We begin with the aerospace engineer. They are at the root of the whole chain.
They continually research new and safer technologies for the aviation industry
and bring their knowledge to fruition when they design and build aircraft and
aerospace systems. Like any other profession, to thrive, there must be a customer.
The aerospace engineer’s customers are the airlines. They may be looked at as
the true employer of the aerospace engineer. The airlines provide the funds that
support aerospace engineers in their research when they sign up for modern
designs and products. They go on to purchase the end products of their work.
2. Aircraft maintenance engineers continue the aerospace engineer’s work in the
field. They inspect the aircraft and make sure it is fit for flight. They service faulty
or overdue components to ensure the prolonged life of the aircraft.
3. With the aircraft in hand, the airlines need a place to operate. Airports are
normally constructed and operated by the state. At the helm of affairs is the airport
manager. They receive the airlines’ business and allocate resources necessary for
their operation at the facility.
4. Flight dispatchers liaise with airline management, airport staff and pilots to plan
flight schedules.
5. Passengers book flights with their favourite airline. With the current advancement
in technology, most people do this online with the help of customer service
representatives at the airline. They arrive at the airport and are received by airline
passenger service agents. Passenger service agents assist passengers to check in
and receive their baggage. Luggage is passed on to cargo handlers who process it
for loading onto the aircraft.
6. Airport security personnel process passengers as they move from the airline
counters towards the boarding gates. They check to make sure that passengers are
not in possession of any items that might present a security risk to other travellers.
They monitor passenger behaviour and coordinate with the security services to
identify and isolate potentially harmful individuals.
7. Passenger service agents interact with passengers one more time when they call
out boarding schedules at the gate. Passengers make their way to the aircraft and
are received by flight attendants who direct them to their seats and assist them
with stowing their carry-on luggage. They ensure that all passengers are seated
and safely strapped in, then secure the doors and prepare for the flight. They make
presentations about safety measures on board the aircraft in the event of emergency
and serve food and drinks as the flight progresses towards its destination.
8. Pilots take charge of the flight and control the aircraft from taxi to take-off, cruising,
and landing at the destination airport. They maintain constant communication

16
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

with air traffic controllers for instructions to ensure the safety of theirs and other
aircraft in the same airspace.
9. In all this work, they work as a team to ensure that there is smooth and safe travel
for both travellers and workers in the aviation industry.

Figure 11. Coordination in aviation

Activity 4.3: Dramatisation

Perform a play portraying the interrelationship between the aviation professions

for smooth and safe air travel.
Your teacher will guide you to perform a short dramatisation of how
aviation professions work together to ensure safe flight. Follow along as
your group discusses how to perform this.
Cast: Airport Manager, Meteorological Officer, Maintenance Technician, Flight
Dispatcher, Flight Attendant, Passenger Service Agent, Air Traffic Controller
Guidelines:
First Scene: An airport manager holds a brief meeting with all personnel and
takes them through the activities for the day. All personnel state their readiness
for the day. The meteorological officer gives the weather for the day. The passenger
service agent gives the number of booked seats. The maintenance technician
shows the state and readiness of the aircraft for take-off. The flight dispatcher
confirms safety on the ground. Meeting ends.
Second Scene: Flight dispatcher confirms to pilots that all passengers are seated
and ready.

17
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

Third Scene: Pilots call air traffic controllers for the latest weather. Pilots ask for
clearance for take-off. The air traffic controller gives clearance.
Fourth Scene: Flight attendants announce safety measures and precautions to
passengers.
Fifth Scene: Aircraft Marshaller (Flight Dispatcher) directs pilots and bids them
farewell.
-Play ends-

Activity 4.4: Flow Chart

Develop a flowchart showing the interrelationship between the aviation

professions.
a. Your teacher will put you into groups.
b. In your group, develop a flowchart showing the interrelationship between the
aviation professions.
c. You may use the following:
i. Flip chart, cardboard, plain sheets.
ii. Colour markers, pencils, pen.
iii. Rulers
iv. Eraser
v. Paper clips
vi. Push pins
vii. Scissors
viii. Knife.
d. Your group will be asked to explain the information on your flashcard to the
whole class.
e. Share your work with other groups after the presentation.

18
Review Questions

1. You are travelling from Kumasi to Accra on a local flight like African World
Airlines (AWA). Identify at least four (4) aviation professionals you are likely to
encounter and give three roles each played for your smooth and safe travels.
2. Three students from your school came to you as students of aviation and aerospace
engineering on certain careers they want to pursue. These include Piloting,
aerospace engineering, air traffic control and aircraft maintenance engineers.
Suggest to them the requirements they would need to pursue such careers.
3. Develop a flowchart as a group for a presentation that traces the educational
progression from high school through to professional institutions in the aviation
industry.
4. Your school decided to make an aircraft as well as manage the operations of
this aircraft just like it happens at airports and employ all the professionals in
the aviation industry. Develop a flowchart to be presented to the class in groups
showing the interrelationship between all these aviation professionals.

19
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

EXTENDED READING
Cook, M. (2012). How to Land a Top-Paying Airline Job: The Proven System for Beating
the Odds and Landing Pilot Jobs at the World’s Best Airlines. Aviation Supplies &
Academics, Inc.

REFERENCES
1. McConnell, D. (2011). Airline Pilot Selection and Interview Workbook. Aviation
Supplies & Academics, Inc.
2. Phillips, W. (2010). Careers in Aviation and Aerospace. McGraw-Hill Education.
3. Shaw, J. (2016). Airline Career and Interview Manual. University Aviation Press.
4. International Civil Aviation Organisation (I.C.A.O) Annexes
5. Internet sources
6. Videos:
a. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/list-of-airport-jobs
b. How to Become an Air Traffic Controller in Ghana - Education in South Africa
(akessesanza.com)
c. Aviation Jobs in Airports and Airlines (youtube.com)
d. Aviation jobs - catch your dream [atc for you] (youtube.com)

20
SECTION 4 THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

List of Contributors
Name Institution

Bismark Owusu Afua Kobi Ampem Girls SHS

Baiden Alexander Kwesi STEM SHS, Abomosu

Joel Opoku Mintah Altair Unmanned Technologies

Ferdinand Sam Afua Kobi Ampem Girls SHS

21