This aviation profession involves sharing responsibility with the pilot-in-command for the safe and efficient operation of a flight. It encompasses pre-flight planning, including route selection, fuel calculations, weather analysis, and regulatory compliance. During the flight, these professionals monitor progress, relaying updated information and offering support to the flight crew as needed. For example, they might alert a pilot to changing weather conditions or assist with alternative landing site selection in an emergency.
This role is essential for mitigating risks and ensuring on-time performance. By meticulously evaluating all factors affecting a flight, these professionals contribute significantly to airline safety and operational efficiency. Historically, dispatching emerged alongside commercial aviation, growing in complexity with technological advancements and increasing air traffic. The profession continues to evolve, adapting to modern aviation’s demands and integrating new technologies for enhanced safety and efficiency.
