Position OverviewThe
Chief Pilot is responsible for managing all aspects of HGA's corporate flight operations, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of company personnel and cargo. This role oversees pilot scheduling, training, aircraft maintenance coordination, regulatory compliance, and overall flight department operations. The Chief Pilot will serve as the company's aviation subject matter expert and work closely with executives to align flight operations with business objectives.
The Chief Pilot will lead a team that currently includes
two pilots and is supported by
an administrative assistant who assists with scheduling, compliance documentation, and logistical coordination.
ResponsibilitiesFlight Operations & Safety - Ensure all flight operations adhere to FAA regulations, company policies, and industry best practices.
- Serve as the primary pilot for the Citation CJ4 - N245MG.
- Oversee pilot assignments for all flights on all aircraft (including a TBM940 - N55DG) including contract and safety pilots.
- Conduct and oversee pre-flight planning, risk assessments, and weather monitoring.
- Maintain the highest safety standards, implementing policies that enhance risk management and operational integrity.
- Develop and maintain an emergency response plan for flight operations.
Team Leadership & Personnel Management - Supervise and mentor pilots, ensuring high performance, training compliance, and adherence to safety protocols.
- Oversee pilot hiring, training, and scheduling, ensuring availability for business travel needs.
- Maintain recurrent training programs, including simulator training, check rides, and safety protocols.
- Monitor pilot performance and ensure proficiency through regular evaluations and debriefings.
- Foster a collaborative and professional culture within the flight department.
Aircraft & Maintenance Oversight - Ensure company aircraft are maintained in peak operational condition, coordinating with maintenance providers for scheduled inspections, repairs, and regulatory compliance.
- Oversee aircraft recordkeeping, ensuring documentation of maintenance logs, flight hours, and regulatory inspections.
- Work with vendors, mechanics, and maintenance providers to optimize cost-effective service and minimize downtime.
Regulatory Compliance & Documentation - Serve as the company's primary liaison with the FAA and other aviation regulatory bodies, with the support of the CFO.
- Ensure compliance with all Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), including Part 91 operations.
- Maintain all required pilot certifications, training records, and operational documentation.
- Implement policies and procedures to meet evolving aviation regulations and best practices.
Corporate Leadership & Strategic Planning - Align flight department goals with company objectives, providing strategic aviation guidance to executives.
- Evaluate opportunities for operational efficiencies, aircraft upgrades, and flight department growth.
- Maintain strong communication with executives, aircraft co-owners, and business unit leaders regarding aviation needs.
Administrative & Operational Support - Coordinate administrative personnel supporting the flight department, including scheduling, compliance tracking, and document management.
- Ensure seamless coordination between flight operations, executive travel needs, and company logistics.
Qualifications - Pilot-in-Command (PIC) experience with at least 5,000 hours of total flight time and 1,000 hours of multi-engine flight time as PIC.
- C525 Single Pilot Type Rating preferred.
- Experience with CJ3/CJ3+/CJ4/CJ4 Gen2 preferred.
- Must hold a commercial pilot license with a second-class medical certificate or higher.
- Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, aviation safety standards, and flight operations best practices.
- Prior leadership or managerial experience in a corporate or charter flight department preferred.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to coordinate with executives and external vendors.
- Ability to travel frequently, including overnight trips, weekends, and holidays as required.
- Must reside within commuting distance to Ruston, LA, or be willing to relocate.
- No prior aircraft accidents, FAA violations, or license suspensions without satisfactory explanation.
