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Director Air Service Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Director will manage and direct El Paso International Airport operations, including business and financial operations, airfield and building maintenance, air service development, capital ...

Strategy development for the creation of an overall aviation safety program with the ability to ... Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service * PTO:

Strategy development for the creation of an overall aviation safety program with the ability to ... Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service * PTO:

Business development * Essential Air Service (EAS): Research, propose, win, and retain government sponsored EAS contracts * Manage contract charter; freight; US Mail, and other ancillary ...

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Director Air Service Development information

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$43K

$82.6K

$162K

How much do director air service development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for director air service development in the United States is $82,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Director Air Service Development vs Airport Operations Manager?

AspectDirector Air Service DevelopmentAirport Operations Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aviation, business, or related field; experience in airline or airport industryUsually holds a bachelor's degree in aviation management, logistics, or related area; industry experience essential
Work EnvironmentFocuses on airline route planning, airline partnerships, and market analysisOversees daily airport operations, safety, and customer service
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily employed by airports, airlines, or aviation authoritiesEmployed by airports or airport authorities

The main difference is that the Director Air Service Development concentrates on expanding airline routes and partnerships, while the Airport Operations Manager manages daily airport functions and safety. Both roles require industry experience and relevant credentials but focus on different aspects of airport and airline operations.

How does a Director of Air Service Development typically collaborate with airlines and airport stakeholders to expand air service options?

A Director of Air Service Development works closely with airlines, airport leadership, local government, and business partners to identify opportunities for new routes and increased flight frequencies. This often involves analyzing market data, building strong relationships with airline route planners, and presenting compelling business cases to attract new carriers. Regular meetings, industry conferences, and strategic partnership initiatives are common, requiring excellent communication and negotiation skills. By aligning the interests of the airport and community with those of the airlines, the Director plays a key role in enhancing connectivity and economic growth.

What does a Director of Air Service Development do?

A Director of Air Service Development is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to attract and retain airline services at airports. They analyze market trends, negotiate with airline partners, and build relationships to increase flight routes and passenger traffic. These professionals often collaborate with tourism boards, local governments, and business communities to promote the airport and its region. Their goal is to enhance connectivity, boost economic growth, and ensure the airport remains competitive.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Air Service Development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Air Service Development, you need expertise in aviation management, data analysis, and route development, usually supported by a degree in aviation, business, or a related field. Familiarity with airline scheduling tools, market forecasting software, and CRM systems is typically required, along with knowledge of industry regulations. Strong negotiation, relationship-building, and strategic communication skills are vital for engaging with airlines and stakeholders. These abilities are essential for attracting and retaining air services, driving airport growth, and ensuring competitive positioning within the aviation industry.
More about Director Air Service Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Air Service Development jobs? Cities with the most Director Air Service Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Service Development jobs? The most popular types of Air Service Development jobs are:
What states have the most Director Air Service Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Air Service Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Air Service Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Air Service Development jobs are:
Infographic showing various Director Air Service Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,598 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Manager, Air Service Development

Port of Seattle

Seatac, WA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Port Of Seattle rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 836 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

As the Manager, Air Service Development, you will support Seattle-Tacoma International Airport's (SEA) efforts to expand, maintain, and optimize passenger air service. You will build strong relationships with global airlines, as well as oversee marketing and incentive programs. You will support the team's efforts in increasing passenger traffic, route diversity and airport revenue to ensure SEA's success as a global gateway.

  • You will identify new route opportunities and gaps in service through market research, data, analysis and industry trends. You will monitor and evaluate route performance, and develop persuasive, data-driven route proposals to support network planning discussions with airline executives. 
  • You will develop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with global airline partners, route planners, and other industry stakeholders from a wide variety of cultures.
  • You will collaborate with airline marketing and sales teams to oversee global promotional projects and ensure effective use of Port funds and full compliance with Port/State/Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.
  • You will have a thorough understanding of the global aviation industry and issues that affect the market, including airline business models, corporate and leisure travel, international and federal regulatory developments, and slots. 
  • You will transform complex issues and data into clear presentations and policy recommendations for Port leadership and other stakeholders.
  • You will work with regional economic development organizations and other government agencies to support air service growth. 
  • You will represent SEA in industry groups/committees and advocate for the Port of Seattle's preferred positions.
  • You will supervise, coach, mentor, and oversee performance management and talent development of the Air Service Development Analyst.
  • Experience - You have five (5) years of experience in air service development, airline network planning, commercial strategy, and/or business development, and two (2) years of supervisory/lead/mentor experience including leading a project or process.
  • Desired - We hope you have experience analyzing aviation market data, passenger demand, airline economics, and route performance to build evidence based business cases for international air service, a bachelor's degree in aviation, international business, global policy, and/or an American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Certified Manager (CM) certification.
  • Committed to Equity - You will apply equity and exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices in all aspects of the work.  At the Port of Seattle, equity is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all Port employees.
  • Intercultural Expertise - You demonstrate an understanding of global dynamics, cultural norms, and international business practices. You can navigate diverse communication styles and perspectives, adjusting your approach to build trust and foster meaningful collaboration. Your interactions promote inclusion, respect, and a sense of belonging for individuals from all cultural backgrounds.
  • Relationship-Oriented - You can build and maintain productive relationships with airlines, regional government, economic development organizations, travel and tourism industry representatives, and/or aviation stakeholders.
  • Analytical - You demonstrate strong analytical skills and data fluency, turning raw information into clear insights that support informed decisions.
  • Organizational Savviness - You operate effectively within a complex organization with competing priorities. You anticipate issues, manage resources, handle multiple projects, and balance immediate needs with long term goals.
  • Effective Communicator - You have advanced communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to garner trust and build strong, credible relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
  • Work Schedule - Your normal work schedule will be Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (40 hours per week). Slightly more flexible start and end times are available in this role. This position also requires attending meetings and events after hours, as needed.
  • Work Environment - You will primarily work in an office environment. This position includes regular international travel. 
  • Washington State Residency Requirement - Employees must establish a residence in Washington state within 30 days of their first day of employment and must maintain a residence in Washington State during their employment with the Port of Seattle. If a position is eligible to telework, work performed while teleworking must be performed in Washington State.
  • Security Requirements - As the successful candidate, you must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check as well as a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Your employment will be contingent upon obtaining a Port of Seattle ID badge upon clearance. You will also be required to obtain a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Customs Seal within 30 days of hire.

The Port of Seattle offers an extensive benefits package that rewards our staff for their valuable contributions towards the Port's mission. In addition to the summary below, benefit details for non-represented positions can be found on the Port of Seattle's website. If the position is represented by a union, please refer to the "Collective Bargaining Agreement" or contact the appropriate Union Representative for specific information related to benefits and eligibility.

  • Healthcare - Medical, Dental, and Vision Care with options that work for you and your family.
  • Paid Vacation - Just about four weeks per year that increases with tenure to rest and rejuvenate.
  • Paid Sick Leave - At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
  • Holidays - More than ten days per year to celebrate with family and friends away from work.
  • Pension/Retirement Plans - A pension and additional savings plans to prepare for your future after the Port.
  • Getting to Work - From subsidized parking and a low-cost public transit card to alternative work arrangements giving you an opportunity to work hybrid.
  • Parental Leave - Six weeks of paid leave to spend with new additions to your immediate family.
  • Development - From tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments and internal internships, we support a learning culture.
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion - The Port of Seattle values diversity as a source of innovation and strength. We are actively working across the organization to create a culture where all employees - regardless of race, gender, and other identities - succeed and reach their fullest potential.
  • Work-Life Balance - We provide the resources to help you create habits to be healthy and balanced.
  • Mission Driven - We are focused together in promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.

Every role at the Port of Seattle is vital to our thriving community. We are a leader in moving people and cargo across the country and around the world. With facilities and property ranging in scope from a half-acre park to one of the largest airports and container terminals on the West Coast, we maximize the public assets in our portfolio with an eye toward best uses and environmental sustainability. Find out more here.
 

Our vision is to create a Port that mirrors - throughout its breadth of operations and services and within its leadership - the diversity of our communities, instill principles of equity into its culture, and ensures a fair and intentional distribution of opportunities to expand economic development and quality of life for all in our region. Find out more about how our values RAISE us up and our commitment to equity.


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