1

Managing Director Airlines Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Managing Director, Human Resources

Renton, WA · On-site

$140.69 - $211.04/hr

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Unlimited confirmed travel for you and eligible family members on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian ... The Managing Director of Human Resources is responsible for leading the Human Resources team and ...

Director of Transportation & Fleet Operations -- Airline Catering Location: Our Chicago Hub is ... Manage operational planning for daily operations, schedule changes, peak periods, and irregular ...

Reporting directly to the Managing Director - USA, this position is aimed at an experienced ... airlines, and logistics partners. * Performance management and results‑driven mindset ...

AIRCRAFT ON GROUND COORDINATOR

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

The AOG Coordinator has an indirect report to the SOC Manager and direct report to the Managing ... GoJet Airlines operates as a regional partner for United Airlines, providing daily flights across ...

AIRCRAFT ON GROUND COORDINATOR

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

The AOG Coordinator has an indirect report to the SOC Manager and direct report to the Managing ... GoJet Airlines operates as a regional partner for United Airlines, providing daily flights across ...

... management. * Lead the Contract and Agreement negotiations between PSA Airlines and Heavy ... Work closely and coordinate with the Director of Maintenance Planning and Scheduling to formulate ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Managing Director Airlines information

See salary details

$23.5K

$121.5K

$189.5K

How much do managing director airlines jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for managing director airlines in the United States is $121,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a managing director in airlines, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Managing Director in Airlines, you need extensive leadership experience, strong business acumen, and a background in aviation management or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree such as an MBA. Familiarity with airline management systems, safety regulations, and financial planning tools is crucial, as is knowledge of industry certifications like IATA or ICAO standards. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and crisis management skills help navigate complex regulatory environments and lead diverse teams. These capabilities are vital for driving operational efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and steering the airline towards sustainable growth and profitability.

How does a managing director in airlines balance strategic decision-making with day-to-day operational oversight?

A Managing Director in the airline sector typically spends their time balancing high-level strategic planning with close oversight of daily operations. This involves collaborating with heads of departments such as flight operations, maintenance, finance, and customer service to ensure cohesive execution of the company's vision. While much of the work is focused on long-term growth, managing directors must also respond quickly to industry changes, regulatory updates, and operational challenges. Regular communication with the executive team, board members, and external partners is crucial to maintain alignment and drive the airline's success.

What does a managing director in airlines do?

A Managing Director in an airline is responsible for overseeing the overall operations, strategic direction, and profitability of the airline. This role involves leading executive teams, making high-level decisions about routes, fleets, staffing, and financial planning, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. The Managing Director also represents the airline to stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and the public, and works to maintain the company's reputation and competitive position in the industry.

What is the difference between Managing Director Airlines vs Airline Operations Manager?

AspectManaging Director AirlinesAirline Operations Manager
CredentialsExtensive industry experience, leadership qualifications, possibly an MBARelevant degree (e.g., aviation management), experience in airline operations
Work EnvironmentExecutive office, boardrooms, strategic planning sessionsOperational hubs, control centers, on-site airline facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAirline corporations, aviation industry leadershipAirline companies, operational departments
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level strategic role, industry leadershipOperational management, daily airline functions

The Managing Director Airlines oversees the entire airline's strategic direction and leadership, while the Airline Operations Manager focuses on daily operational activities. Both roles are vital but differ in scope, with the Managing Director holding a higher-level executive position and the Operations Manager handling day-to-day airline functions.

More about Managing Director Airlines jobs
What cities are hiring for Managing Director Airlines jobs? Cities with the most Managing Director Airlines job openings:
What states have the most Managing Director Airlines jobs? States with the most job openings for Managing Director Airlines jobs include:
Infographic showing various Managing Director Airlines job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,522 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Managing Director - Global Aviation Security & Facilitation

United Airlines, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


United Airlines rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 342 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Description
There's never been a more exciting time to join United Airlines. Our Aviation Security team helps uphold the regulatory and policy standards required to run a safe and successful airline for our employees, passengers, and aircraft worldwide. This includes the global aviation compliance team that oversees TSA and Host Government compliance, the geopolitical team, a 24/7 NOC Security Desk, the Passenger Incident Programs, and the Facilitation team.
Job overview and responsibilities
The Managing Director of Global Aviation Security and Facilitation will direct, oversee, develop, and manage a large aviation security and facilitation team that: (1) anticipates and assesses worldwide threats and geopolitical activity that could disrupt or impact aviation; (2) conducts security risk assessments of our operations and policies; (3) conducts security audits of our operations worldwide and ensures compliance with U.S. and foreign security regulations and company policy related to security; (4) manages the team overseeing United's compliance with the entrance and exit requirements for passengers and cargo traveling across international borders within the aviation context; and (5) advises our operations on security-related events and policies in real-time through a 24-hour/7-day-a-week desk in the Network Operations Center. Manage key operational relationships with the FBI, CIA, NCTC and Department of Homeland Security - particularly the Transportation Security Administration - to further our operations, initiatives, goals, and interests while advocating for United's employees and customers.
  • Lead and manage the global aviation security team as well as the facilitation team, which includes employees at headquarters, the Network Operations Center, remote employees, and at airports in both the United States and foreign countries.
  • Advocate for policy changes to improve the security and facilitation of United's operations and further the interests of our employees and passengers - including through participation in industry groups (e.g., Airlines for America).
  • Serve as the Company's aviation security and facilitation policy expert to advise and assess the Company's compliance with security and facilitation requirements - including both passenger and cargo operations.
  • Interpret geopolitical assessments and analyses to identify high-risk areas that may require additional caution or policy changes. Serve as Company's advocate with government agencies (DHS, TSA, CBP, FBI, CIA, NCTC, etc.)
  • Oversee security risk assessments of our operations and policies.

Qualifications
What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • The successful candidate must have or be able to obtain a DoD Secret clearance
  • 12+ years of experience implementing and executing aviation security or facilitation policies, programs, and procedures at an air carrier (or equivalent experience)
  • 5+ years' experience leading others
  • Knowledge of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, their regulations, and the international equivalent regulations / IATA security standards / ICAO Annexes 9 and 17
  • Knowledge of airport and airline operations
  • Diplomacy in dealing with regulators / strategy development / communication with senior level leadership
  • 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
  • This role is based in Chicago and follows a hybrid work schedule

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Master's degree
  • 5 years' experience in airport operations
  • 5 years' experience interacting with Transportation Security Administration or Customs and Border Protection at an international airport or at an enterprise level
  • Demonstrates an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of generative AI tools and effectively leverages them to support research, analysis, content creation, and problem-solving.
  • Applies critical thinking to validate AI-generated outputs while adhering to organizational policies for responsible AI use, data privacy, and security

What United Airlines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


United Airlines logo

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

Social media