Terminal Duty Manager
A terminal duty manager, who can also be known as an airport duty manager, is responsible for the day-to-day running of an airport or terminal. They are responsible for passengers and airport staff, and for terminal facilities. Some may also have responsibilities for airfield operations as well.
Terminal duty managers ensure that the flow of passengers through the terminal is running smoothly and that passengers are able to easily access up-to-date information. The managers also liaise regularly with airlines and ground services providers and also support other businesses operating within the terminal/airport, such as retailers.
Terminal duty managers have to be aware of any issues affecting the airport. These can range from improvement works in the building to VIP visitors who require special security measures. They also must be ready to react to any situation that may arise that could affect how the terminal operates. This could be anything from having flights diverted to the airport or a security scare or emergency. Throughout their work, a terminal duty manager must ensure that high standards of health and safety and customer service are maintained.
Starting salaries for terminal duty managers are around £30000, and these can rise to about £40000 with experience.
Go BackWorking environment
Terminal duty managers have an office in an airport terminal, however they will spend much of their time out and about around the airport. When they are around the airport they will wear identification, and may also have a uniform so that they are easily recognised. If they do not have a uniform, they will be expected to dress smartly, so that they appropriately represent the airport.
Terminal duty managers spend a lot of time on their feet, moving around the terminal and meeting with other people while they are on the go. They will keep a handheld radio with them so that they can communicate with people in other areas of the airport and so that they are contactable at all times. When they are working in their office, they will have a computer to use, but will still be always contactable by phone or radio.
It is common for terminal duty managers to work shift – sometimes of up to 12 hours. These shifts can include nights, weekends and bank holidays.
Go BackSkills and interests
The skills a terminal duty manager needs to have include:-
- excellent communication skills, for dealing with a wide variety of people from the general public to senior managers from other aviation companies
- organisational ability, in order to manage many different tasks at once
- ability to react calmly and quickly to any situation that might arise
- leadership and motivation of staff
- understanding of the importance of good customer service.
Entry into the role
Terminal duty managers do not need any particular qualifications, although it is important to have a good basic education such as GCSEs (or national equivalent) in English and maths.
Terminal duty managers are employed by airport operators and airport authorities. Employers will expect applicants to have experience of working in aviation, preferably in an airport, so that they have gained experience of how an airport operates.
Vacancies will be advertised on airport websites, and may also be promoted through specialist recruitment websites.
Go BackOpportunities
Terminal duty managers can move from airport to airport to take on more responsibilities, such as working larger airports. They can also become manager for the whole airport in larger airports where there is more than one terminal.
Progression from terminal duty manager can be into other operational roles and eventually into senior management or director roles.
Terminal duty managers are also able to study for qualifications related to their work. For example there are part-time Masters courses available in airport and aviation management.
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