Flight Operations Manager in Fairford

Location: Fairford

Overview

The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is staged in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. The Trust is dedicated to inspiring future generations to achieve their potential and to building a brighter, more sustainable future for defence, national security, and space and aviation industries. We are seeking a highly capable and driven Flight Operations Manager to play a pivotal role at the heart of RIAT. Based at Douglas Bader House, Fairford, this is a rare opportunity to join the small team who deliver Air Operations at one of the most complex and prestigious aviation operations in the global events calendar.

This is a role for someone who thrives in a high-stakes, highly regulated environment, with a significant track record within an operational aviation environment, including knowledge of airfield operations, airspace and aircraft operations, with commitment to safety. You will be an integral part of the Air Operations Department with responsibility for airfield operations, regulatory compliance and aviation safety, working closely with UK and international military partners, aviation regulators, other key stakeholders, as well as leading a large cadre of volunteers. We are seeking someone with a passion for aviation, excellence and who finds genuine satisfaction in delivering under pressure. This is a permanent, full-time role. Working hours will increase significantly in the lead-up to and delivery of RIAT, including some weekend and extended-hours working, reflecting the operational nature of the event.

Responsibilities

• Responsible to the Head of Air Operations for all airfield operational matters, including safety, regulatory compliance and assurance for the RIAT, and any other relevant RAFCTE events.
• Ensuring regulatory compliance with all relevant MAA/CAA regulations to ensure delivery of a safe aviation operating environment.
• Accountable to the Head of Air Operations for all regulatory body (MAA and CAA) assurance, acting as the prime Air Operations contact with the MAA and CAA.
• Own, Review, Update & Publish the Air Safety Management Plan and associated documents within RAFCTE’s Air Safety Management System (ASMS).
• Responsible for the provision of all airspace requirements for RIAT, including liaison with RAF Brize Norton, Civil Aviation Authority and other agencies (such as NATS/Swanwick) and submission of Restricted Airspace (Temporary) requests.
• Responsible for all aviation incident/occurrence investigations related to RIAT, including filing of DASORs, interviews, investigation and subsequent reporting.
• Responsible for Airfield Driving Policies & Training, including as the RAFCTE approved Airfield Driving Programme Instructor (in cooperation with the USAF).
• Responsible for the management of all Flying Display administration, including liaison with the Military Aviation Authority, paperwork scrutiny, regulatory compliance, participant liaison and administration.
• Responsible for the planning of the aircraft arrival and departure schedules, flying display rehearsal schedule and other associated aircraft movement plans.
• Responsible for administration of both military & civilian aircraft participation at the event.
• Responsible for oversight of all aviation related insurance, including confirmation that all participating aircraft have suitable aviation liability insurance arrangements in place.
• Analysis of aviation fuel used by all participating aircraft at RIAT, to generate more accurate data to support the event’s carbon data report.
• Responsible for the management of participation of external agencies who are key enablers within Air Operations, including UK Border Force, Met Office & Airfield Wildlife Control contractor.
• Responsible for the management of volunteer teams within the RIAT Aerodrome Group.
• Contribute to the production and provision of all Air Operations documentation, such as the Air Operation Order, Aerodrome Charts and other bespoke publications as required.
• Responsible to the Head of Air Operations for the budget management for all relevant areas of Air Operation budgets.
• Air Operations member of the Safety Management Committee.

Education

• A Level or equivalent (essential)
• Qualified Aviation Occurrence Investigator (desirable)
• MAA/CAA Accredited Flying Display Director (desirable)

Knowledge

• Significant track record within an operational aviation environment (essential)
• Strong understanding of military aviation regulations and operating frameworks (essential)
• Strong understanding of airfield operations, airspace and aircraft operations (essential)
• IT literate with the Microsoft Office suite of programmes (essential)
• Aviation Occurrence Investigator, including use of ASIMS (desirable)

Skills

• Ability to plan own work and manage competing priorities
• Ability to prioritise tasks and work under pressure
• Effective communicator, adaptable to various audiences
• Negotiation skills and relationship building with external stakeholders
• Calm under pressure, deadline-driven, and solutions-focused
• Ability to manage multiple resources and operate in a dynamic setting
• Ability to manage resources within a set budget

Qualities

• Team player
• Commitment to excellence
• Self-starter
• Tact, discretion & pragmatism
• Ambition and pride
• Passion for aviation

How to apply

To apply, please submit a comprehensive CV together with a covering letter outlining your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with the requirements. Closing date: 4 February 2026.