Deputy Head of Flying Operations

About Aviair & Nexus

Shape the future of regional aviation in Western Australia and beyond with Aviair and Nexus Airlines, leaders in regional air transport services. Operating under the HMC group, our mission-driven companies offer both scheduled passenger services and charter flights, backed by a fleet of Beechcraft Super King Air, Pilatus PC‑12, Cessna Grand Caravan, and GA8 Airvan aircraft. Our dedication to safety, regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service drives our continued innovation and improvement.

About the role:

Role summary

Drive safer, more reliable connections for remote communities by joining Aviair as Deputy Head of Flying Operations (Part 135). This position offers the chance to enhance Western Australia's air connectivity and safety, playing a crucial role in improving safety and flight standards while ensuring compliance with Civil Aviation Safety Regulations. Lead daily air transport services and work closely with the current HOFO to guide pilots and the operations team. This role not only makes a significant impact but also provides a clear pathway to the Head of Flying Operations (HOFO) role. We encourage candidates interested in advancing their aviation management careers to apply, even if all criteria are not met.

Key responsibilities

• Leadership and crew management: Motivate and guide pilots and senior base pilots to maintain safety and quality standards. Coach crews, supervise performance, and assist the HOFO with crew scheduling and training.
• Training and Standards: Collaborate with the Head of Training & Checking and the Head of Operations to establish training standards and schedules. Oversee recurrent training, simulator sessions, and proficiency checks to ensure pilots meet all requirements.
• Policies and procedures: Support the development and maintenance of flight operations policies, procedures, and manuals. Ensure documentation remains current and aligned with regulations and best practices.
• Regulatory compliance and safety: Monitor compliance with Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) and company manuals. Implement safety management systems, conduct regular audits, and ensure that all flights comply with regulatory requirements. Liaise with CASA and relevant authorities as needed.
• Operational oversight: Oversee daily flight operations, including aircraft scheduling, crewing and route planning. Coordinate with the operations and ground teams. Address irregular operations, adverse weather conditions, and unforeseen issues to maintain optimal performance. Participate in risk assessments and incident investigations, providing corrective actions as necessary.
• Culture and continuous improvement: Foster a culture of safety, professionalism, and integrity, with a focus on excellent customer service. Lead weekly safety meetings, encourage peer recognition, and collaborate with other departments to ensure compliance and drive ongoing improvements. Support company initiatives to maintain a motivated workforce.

About you:

Ideal candidate qualities

• Problem‑solving and decision‑making: Demonstrated ability to analyse operational challenges, manage risks and make sound decisions under pressure. Experience conducting risk assessments and incident investigations is desirable.
• Regulatory expertise: In-depth knowledge of Civil Aviation Safety Regulations, particularly CASR Parts 119 and 135, and the responsibilities of key personnel roles. Proven ability to interpret and apply regulations, develop compliant procedures, and liaise with authorities, as well as manage compliance with various customer aviation standards, including IOGP 691, BARS, and IOSA.
• Aircraft experience: Extensive turbine aircraft experience, with proficiency in either King Air, PC‑12, or Cessna Caravan types. Experience in remote single‑pilot operations, including day and night VFR/IFR flying.
• Leadership and communication: Strong leadership skills, capable of engaging and motivating pilots and support staff. Excellent written and verbal communication, able to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders and to represent the company in regulatory or client discussions.
• Attention to detail and organisational ability: Highly organised, with the ability to manage complex scheduling, maintain accurate records and oversee multiple projects simultaneously. Attentive to detail in compliance, training records and operational documentation.
• Commitment to culture and people: A role model who upholds our safety culture and values. Able to foster a positive and inclusive environment across remote bases and integrate seamlessly with both Aviair and Nexus teams.

Minimum qualifications

• Commercial Pilot Licence (Aeroplane) with Class 1 aviation medical.
• At least 2,500 hours total aeronautical experience with significant turbine time.
• Minimum of 6 months of management experience in air transport operations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) and pass company security requirements.

Desirable qualifications

• Current or former Pilot‑in‑Command on King Air, PC‑12 or Cessna Caravan aircraft.
• Previous CASA approval as a Head of Flying Operations, Chief Pilot or other key personnel role.
• Training and checking or flight instruction experience.
• Tertiary qualifications in aviation or management.

About us:

What we offer

• Fly, Lead, and Be Home for Dinner: Benefit from a permanent full-time role with a competitive salary package and salary-sacrifice options.
• Comprehensive on‑the‑job training through our approved Training & Checking organisation, including simulator and line training
• Professional development opportunities and a clear pathway to the Head of Flying Operations role.
• A supportive team culture within a growing, inclusive company operating across regional Western Australia.

How to apply

Please submit your cover letter and résumé detailing your qualifications and experience. We review applications as they are received and will contact shortlisted candidates to arrange interviews.

Interested in aviation management?

If you are passionate about aviation management but do not meet every listed criterion, we encourage you to apply. Aviair and Nexus Airlines value potential and are committed to developing future industry leaders.