Video Credit: Jet2.com Youtube Channel

Welcome to the fascinating world of airport operations! An Airport Team Leader, is just one of many exciting Tourism and Hospitality careers to choose from, this profession plays a pivotal role that ensures the smooth functioning of one of the busiest and most dynamic places on earth – an airport.

As an Airport Team Leader, you are responsible for coordinating various teams and departments, overseeing operations, and ensuring that the airport runs efficiently and safely. Your day is a whirlwind of activities and challenges, where no two days are the same. Let’s dive in and experience a day in your shoes!

Photo Credit: Ieyenews/ Caribbean Airlines

Morning Briefing

Your day starts early in the morning with a briefing session. Where you gather with the duty managers, supervisors, and other team leaders from different departments. It sets the tone for the day, as you discuss important updates, review the previous day’s performance, and highlight any potential challenges or disruptions that might affect airport operations.

Tasks Include:

• Reviewing yesterday’s performance to identify areas of improvement.
• Discussing upcoming events or high-traffic periods that might impact operations.
• Addressing any ongoing maintenance or repair projects.
• Ensuring compliance with safety and security protocols.

Operational Oversight

After the morning briefing, you head to the airport operations center. Here, you keep a close eye on real-time flight schedules, weather updates, and any potential disruptions. 

Tasks Include:

• Coordinating with air traffic control to manage runway traffic.
• Ensuring ground crews efficiently service arriving and departing aircraft.
• Handling any unexpected delays or diversions.
• Checking passenger flow and queue management at security checkpoints.

Photo Credit: Caribbean Airlines

Team Coordination

An essential part of your role is coordinating with various teams, including ground staff, security personnel, baggage handlers, and maintenance crews. You conduct regular check-ins with your team members, making sure they have the necessary resources and support to perform their duties effectively.

Tasks Include:

• Conducting a meeting to address any ongoing issues or concerns raised by the team.
• Assigning tasks and shifts for the day to ensure optimal coverage.
• Providing training or refresher sessions for team members.
• Acknowledging outstanding performance and boosting team morale.

Handling Challenges

As an Airport Team Leader, you must be prepared for the unexpected. Throughout the day, various challenges might arise, such as flight cancellations due to weather, technical issues, or security incidents. Your ability to remain calm under pressure and make quick decisions is crucial in these situations.

Tasks Include:

• Activating contingency plans to deal with flight cancellations or diversions.
• Coordinating with relevant authorities during security incidents.
• Communicating with passengers and providing updates on the situation.
• Ensuring the safety and well-being of all staff and passengers.

Photo Credit: WIC News/ Peter Lim Choy

Continuous Improvement

You analyze data on operational efficiency, customer feedback, and employee performance to identify areas that need enhancement. You work with your team to implement changes and innovative solutions to make the airport experience better for everyone.

Tasks Include:

• Streamlining the check-in and boarding processes to reduce waiting times.
• Introducing new technology for baggage handling and tracking.
• Enhancing customer service training for airport staff.
• Implementing eco-friendly initiatives to reduce the airport’s environmental impact.

Being an Airport Team Leader is a dynamic and challenging role that requires a combination of leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for ensuring smooth airport operations. Every day is different, filled with opportunities to make a positive impact on the airport’s performance and the experience of travelers. Remember, behind every seamless airport experience there is a dedicated team working tirelessly to make it happen!

If being an Airport Team Leader is a career part that excites you be sure to learn more about our Associate degree programmes and upcoming short courses for professional development. 

References

(2023, June 19). A Day in the Life of an Airport Team Leader [Blog post]. Airport Insights Blog.