Considering a career in flight dispatch

[szunzune]

Hello all

I've recently become interested in a career in flight dispatch and have a ton of questions for anyone who can answer them! I am currently a bartender and a hairstylist/nail technician looking for a different path. I like what I do but there is no stability in these industries and certainly no security either. Growing up I always wanted to be a pilot but because flight school is so expensive, I am looking into other jobs that are related. With that said I would also like to oddly admit that a big reason I am interested in flight dispatch is because I have a strong interest (almost obsession- if you will) in airports, planes, traveling, etc. I just love the atmosphere. So here are my questions, bare with me I know it is a lot!

1. My initial concern is the age limit for certification- 23? This has certainly introduced complications as I just turned 21 in May. It is my understanding that you can take the courses and tests at age 21. So I guess what I'm trying to ask here, is if I should just wait to go to school till I'm closer to 23, or go to school now? Which leads me to my next question- say I go to school now and pass all the exams...Are there any dispatch-related jobs that I CAN obtain before I turn 23? Or perhaps some kind of dispatch apprenticeship?

2. Where do dispatchers work from? I am assuming in every airport so sorry if this is a dumb question.

3. Is this considered a CAREER job?

4. What can I expect salary wise starting out, in 5 years, in 10 years, etc.

5. What is the job market like right now?

6. Has anyone attended Sonoran Wings Flight Control Academy in Tucson AZ? This is the closest school to me, however I am not very sure about their credentials.

7. Is there a difference in the success rate for men vs. women? Or rather, I would just like to know if women are successful in this career.

8. What are the benefits like? I know every company will be different, I'm just looking for a general list.

9. In your opinion, is this a good career choice why/why not?


I am sure I'm missing a ton of questions I have that I just can't think of right now. But any insight to these questions would be greatly appreciated! Advice, comments, questions are all welcome

 

[F9DXER]

Answers accordingly,

1. Age limit is 23 to receive the license. You can take the course prior to that but you will only receive a letter stating you have quailified for the license and it will be issued when you reach the required age. Some places do hire assistants where no license is needed. The school you are thinking of attending will be able to tell you.

2. For the most part dispatchers work for an airline at their company's headquarters. There are private corporations that also hire dispatcher for their company jets. Not quite the same responsiblity, though. Then there are companies that hire dispatcher individual aircraft owners and some corporations.

This is the probably the only career field that will not let you live anywhere. You are restricted to either who you want to work for or where you want to work. If you want to work for Delta you will have to move to Atlanta, Southwest or American it is Dallas, UPS - Louisville, Alaska Airlines - Seattle, and so on. Im sure someone on here has a complete list. Mesa Airlines is in Pheonix.

If you opt to enter and stay in this career field - expect to have to move!!!!!


3. For all practical purposes, this is considered a CAREER job. You can branch from it into management, training, safety or even the FAA as a Dispatch Inspector. The choice is yours and what your goals are.

4. Pay wise - varies drastically form what seems below minimun wage to over 6 figures at a major airline with all the seniority. All depends on who you are working for.
Almost all dispatch jobs are union so pay raises are almost automatic per se.

5. As far as jobs, there is movement and most of what are considered beginner dispatch jobs seems to be there. If you want to work for a major expect to have at least 5 years experience.

6. Sorry don't know anything about them. My recommendation is look at all schools that offer what you want and choose the one that fits your needs first. I will say Sheffield is considered the best but that doesn't make them the best for you.

7. Yes women are successful in this career. I know several but overall it is more male dominated. Don't know why.

8. Benifits - generally the standard, medical/dental/life. The biggie is the travel, again varies with who you work for. On top of that we get to jumpseat on most airlines, i.e. ride up front with the pilots. If you have the time and inclination you can travel the world for practically free.

9. As far as a good career. I enjoy it and I am not unhappy with that choice even after 15 years. Aviation is one of those fields you either love totally or just can't stand.
Is it good for you? Only you can decide that.

You are taking the correct steps though in asking questions.

F9DXER