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Flight Intern Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Flight Intern information

What is a flight intern?

Flight Interns are students or recent graduates who gain practical, hands-on experience within an aviation organization, such as an airline or airport, through an internship program. Their responsibilities often include assisting with flight operations, learning about airline procedures, supporting administrative tasks, and shadowing experienced aviation professionals. This role provides valuable industry knowledge, networking opportunities, and insight into potential career paths in aviation, making it a great stepping stone for those interested in becoming pilots, flight dispatchers, or aviation managers.

What tasks and responsibilities does a flight intern have, and how do they interact with the flight operations team?

As a Flight Intern, you can expect to support the flight operations team with a range of responsibilities, such as assisting with pre-flight planning, tracking flight schedules, and preparing documentation. You'll often collaborate with pilots, dispatchers, and maintenance crews, gaining insight into daily flight operations and logistics. Many interns also participate in briefing sessions and may observe flights, depending on company policy. This collaborative environment is a great opportunity to develop hands-on experience and build professional relationships in the aviation industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a flight intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Intern, you typically need a foundational understanding of aviation principles, basic flight operations, and often enrollment in or completion of an aviation-related degree program. Familiarity with flight planning software, weather briefing tools, and sometimes experience with flight simulators or aviation management systems is advantageous. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for supporting flight operations efficiently, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and facilitating smooth team collaboration in a highly regulated environment.

What is the difference between Flight Intern vs Flight Attendant?

AspectFlight InternFlight Attendant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some programs may require aviation-related courseworkHigh school diploma; certification in safety and first aid often required
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in training or ground operationsOnboard aircraft, passenger service, safety procedures
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines during training or internship programsCommercial airlines, private jets, charter services
Common Search & ComparisonOften searched by students or aspiring aviation professionalsMore common in passenger service roles

The main difference is that a Flight Intern is typically a trainee gaining experience in aviation, often during an internship program, while a Flight Attendant is a trained professional responsible for passenger safety and comfort onboard flights. Interns usually focus on learning and observation, whereas Flight Attendants perform active service and safety duties during flights.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Flight jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Flight Intern jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Flight Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Intern job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Intern - Global Network Planning, Alliances & United Express (Summer 2027)

United Airlines

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


United Airlines rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 343 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Achieving our goals starts with supporting yours. Grow your career, access top-tier health and wellness benefits, build lasting connections with your team and our customers, and travel the world using our extensive route network.

Come join us to create what's next. Let's define tomorrow, together.

Description

At United, we like to solve puzzles. From where we fly to when we fly, and even what planes we fly, our Network Planning team crafts flight schedules and routes that connect you with hundreds of destinations around the world, while our Alliances team connects you with even more locations across the globe by partnering with other airlines to get you to the places that matter most. With over 4,500 direct and connecting flights across 5 continents daily, and the largest international route network of any U.S. based airline, our team designs travel experiences that our customers - and employees - love. Get ready to work on our biggest puzzle when you join the Network Planning & Alliances team.

Job overview and responsibilities

The Intern in this role is responsible for assisting the team in building United's route network to maximize profitability as well as contributing to commercial projects including, but not limited to, fleet strategy, airplane configuration, and long-range network plans. Projects will include creating schedule proposals and market forecasts for proposed changes using a data-driven approach. The Associate Analyst will have regular presentations to leadership, up to the Director-level. This position may also complete ad-hoc projects to support the team and broader Department initiatives.

  • Assist in the design and optimization of schedules for maximum network value while taking other stakeholder priorities into account including safety, customer service, catering, inflight crew, aircraft performance and others
  • Regularly evaluate industry trends and their impact on network strategy
  • Work cross functionally with commercial and operating groups such as Revenue Management, Cargo, Sales, Marketing to ensure viability of network plans
  • Perform ad-hoc, data-driven analyses on the broader United network and fleets and make recommendations regarding aircraft purchases, retirements, or reconfigurations
  • Conduct research, develop, and present insights with an owner mentality to leadership

Posted from September 1 - September 15, 2026

Qualifications

What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):

  • Bachelor's degree
  • 0-2 years of related experience
  • Complex problem solving through independent critical thinking
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
  • Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
  • Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):

  • In Aviation, Business, Economics, or related area
  • Internship experience in Aviation Industry
  • Data manipulation and quantitative analysis skills
  • Knowledge of writing SQL queries
  • Demonstrated understanding of the capabilities and limitations of generative AI tools and the ability to leverage AI effectively to support research, analysis, content creation, and problem-solving. Applies critical thinking to validate AI-generated outputs while adhering to organizational policies related to responsible AI use, data privacy, and security.

The starting rate for this role is $20.00.

The base salary range/hourly rate listed is dependent on job-related, non-discriminatory factors such as experience, education and skills. This position may also be eligible for bonus and/or long-term incentive compensation awards.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, employee assistance program, commuter, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k) and flight privileges.

United Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable law. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation, contact JobAccommodations@united.com


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About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

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