The Flight Follower plays a critical role in the safe and efficient operation of the airline by exercising joint operational control with the PIC (Pilot-in-Command). The role involves monitoring flights, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, coordinating with departments, and providing real-time support to flight crews.
Requirements
- Obtain and evaluate weather conditions and forecasts affecting flight routes.
- Review NOTAMs, field conditions, and airspace restrictions for all applicable airports and airspace.
- Request and review Computer Flight Plans (CFPs) for accuracy; verify fuel loads and route planning against operational needs and cost considerations.
- Confirm all flights are planned within structural, performance, and RVSM limitations.
- Review MEL/CDL discrepancies using NavBlue and Form 21A-MF-051; ensure all discrepancies are resolved prior to release.
- Continuously monitor active flights and maintain up-to-date flight tracking.
- Ensure PIC receives and signs accurate and complete flight releases.
- Coordinate with Flight Crews, Maintenance Control, and crew scheduling on any changes, delays, or issues.
- Communicate with ATC facilities to report irregularities or hazardous conditions as reported by crews.
- Issue updates to relevant stations and departments regarding delays, reroutes, cancellations, and equipment changes.
- Log all operational data and relevant communication in the Daily Log.
- Review turnover logs and ensure shift briefings are conducted between outgoing and incoming Flight Followers.
- Evaluate airports for suitability using company forms and procedures (e.g., Form 21AFF-05).
- Coordinate with departments to arrange crew travel, layovers, overfly permits, ground handling, and landing rights.
- Confirm crew and aircraft availability in accordance with the flight schedule.
- Load performance tools as required.
- Perform additional related duties as assigned by the SOC Manager.