Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Flight Line Crew / Line Service Technician

🎯 Role Definition

As a vital member of our Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) or airport operations team, the Flight Line Crew professional is the cornerstone of ground handling and aircraft servicing. This role is responsible for executing a wide array of critical tasks, from safely marshalling multi-million dollar aircraft to providing exceptional service to flight crews and passengers. You are the first and last point of contact on the ground, ensuring every departure and arrival is seamless, secure, and executed with the highest standards of safety and professionalism. This physically demanding, fast-paced position requires a keen eye for detail, a proactive mindset, and an unwavering commitment to safety protocols in all-weather conditions.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

High School Graduate or GED Holder with a strong interest in aviation.
Automotive Technician or Mechanic seeking a new industry.
Warehouse or Logistics personnel accustomed to operational workflows.
Customer Service professionals looking for a more hands-on role.

Advancement To:

Lead Line Service Technician
Line Service Supervisor or Shift Lead
FBO Operations Manager
Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Manager or Mechanic
Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Lateral Moves:

Airport Operations Agent
FBO Customer Service Representative
Aircraft Detailer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform precise aircraft marshalling using ICAO standard hand signals for arrivals, departures, and repositioning on the ramp.
Conduct safe and efficient aircraft fueling and defueling for a variety of piston and turbine aircraft, utilizing both over-wing and single-point refuelling methods.
Operate and position all types of ground support equipment (GSE), including aircraft tugs, ground power units (GPUs), air-start units, and lavatory/potable water carts.
Tow and reposition aircraft of various sizes, ensuring proper equipment usage, adherence to tow limits, and coordination with wing walkers.
Conduct comprehensive quality control checks on aviation fuels, performing daily and periodic tests to ensure compliance with ATA 103 standards.
Greet and assist flight crews and passengers with a professional and courteous demeanor, handling requests for services such as baggage handling, transportation, and catering.
Perform lavatory and potable water servicing for corporate and commercial aircraft, following all health and safety procedures.
Provide ground power and air conditioning/heating to parked aircraft to ensure passenger comfort and support pre-flight preparations.
Execute aircraft de-icing and anti-icing procedures during inclement weather, operating specialized equipment and applying fluids according to manufacturer and FAA guidelines.
Maintain constant situational awareness on the active ramp environment to prevent incidents involving aircraft, vehicles, and personnel.
Manage and document all fuel transactions and services rendered accurately using digital or manual ticketing systems for proper billing.
Conduct daily inspections of GSE and fueling vehicles to ensure they are in safe and proper working order, reporting any discrepancies immediately.
Assist with securing parked aircraft, including chocking, tying down, and placing cones and safety devices as required.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment, including the flight line, fuel farm, and GSE storage areas.
Communicate effectively with the control tower, flight crews, and internal departments via two-way radio using proper aviation phraseology.
Respond promptly and safely to fuel spills or other operational incidents, following established emergency response procedures.
Handle passenger and crew baggage, ensuring it is transferred carefully and efficiently between aircraft and terminals or vehicles.
Monitor ramp activity to ensure adherence to all company, airport, and FAA safety regulations and security protocols.
Provide concierge-level services upon request, including arranging for rental cars, hotel accommodations, and coordinating ground transportation.
Participate in continuous training programs to stay current on safety procedures, equipment operation, and customer service standards.
Perform regular security checks and challenges as mandated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airport authorities.

Secondary Functions

Assist in maintaining the cleanliness and professional appearance of FBO facilities, including lobbies, hangars, and crew lounges.
Support inventory management of aviation oils, fluids, and other line service consumables, assisting with ordering and restocking.
Perform light maintenance on ground support equipment and fueling facilities as directed and within the scope of training.
Collaborate with Customer Service Representatives to ensure a seamless and positive customer experience from arrival to departure.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Aircraft Fueling Procedures: Proficiency in both over-wing and single-point fueling and defueling techniques.
Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Operation: Skilled in operating aircraft tugs, GPUs, belt loaders, and lavatory/water carts.
Aircraft Marshalling: Knowledge of and ability to execute ICAO standard hand signals for aircraft guidance.
Aviation Safety Protocols: Deep understanding of ramp safety, FOD (Foreign Object Debris) prevention, and emergency procedures.
Fuel Quality Control: Ability to perform sump checks, filter checks, and other required tests on aviation fuels.
Radio Communication: Clear and concise communication using proper aviation phraseology and two-way radio etiquette.
Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to perform pre-use inspections and minor troubleshooting on equipment.
Knowledge of Regulations: Familiarity with relevant FAA, TSA, and EPA regulations governing airport operations.

Soft Skills

Situational Awareness: A constant and acute awareness of the dynamic and hazardous ramp environment.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to tasks like fueling, documentation, and safety checks to prevent errors.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work cohesively with fellow crew members, pilots, and other departments.
Strong Work Ethic: Dependable, punctual, and willing to work in all weather conditions, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Problem-Solving: The ability to think critically and react calmly and effectively to unexpected situations.
Customer Service Orientation: A professional, friendly, and helpful demeanor when interacting with high-end clientele and flight crews.
Physical Stamina: Capable of performing physically demanding tasks, including heavy lifting, extended standing, and rapid movement.
Adaptability: Flexibility to handle changing schedules, varying workloads, and diverse operational demands.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
Must possess a valid State Driver's License and maintain a clean driving record.

Preferred Education:

Certificate from an accredited Aviation Technical School.
Associate's Degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Science, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Aviation Technology
Airport Management
Automotive or Diesel Mechanics

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0 - 2 years of experience in a hands-on, operational role. No prior aviation experience is required for entry-level positions; comprehensive training is provided.

Preferred:

1+ years of experience as a Line Service Technician at an FBO or in a similar ground handling role.
Prior experience operating heavy machinery or working in a safety-critical environment (e.g., logistics, construction, or military).
NATA Safety 1st PLST Certification is highly desirable.