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Kalitta Air

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Assistant Chief Pilot – B747 Fleet

Lead Widebody Cargo Ops as Assistant Chief Pilot

Kalitta Air is seeking a seasoned aviation leader to help steer day-to-day pilot operations from our Ypsilanti, Michigan headquarters. As Assistant Chief Pilot, you’ll shape pilot performance and culture, ensure regulatory excellence across global operations, and remain line-qualified on the Boeing 747—with a pathway to Captain on the B747 or B777.

  • Location: Ypsilanti, Michigan (Headquarters)
  • Reports to: Chief Pilot
  • Fleet: Boeing 747 (B777 upgrade pathway)
  • License: ATPL (FAA Multi-Engine)
  • Travel: Domestic and international as required

✈️ The Opportunity

Join a major cargo carrier operating a global widebody network. You’ll combine operational leadership with active flying—mentoring pilots, elevating standards, and representing the Chief Pilot when needed. If you thrive at the intersection of flight operations, safety, and people leadership, this is your runway.

🧭 What You’ll Do

  • Manage day-to-day functions of all pilots as directed by the Chief Pilot.
  • Ensure strict adherence to Kalitta Air policies, procedures, and operational standards.
  • Prepare and distribute crew instructions, bulletins, and manual updates.
  • Partner with Flight Ops, Training, Safety, and Compliance to meet FAA, ICAO, and EASA requirements.
  • Assist with interviewing, selecting, and onboarding pilots.
  • Act on behalf of the Chief Pilot when delegated.
  • Perform line-qualified pilot duties in the cockpit; operate the B747 across a full range of meteorological conditions.

🧰 What You Bring

  • Certificates: FAA Multi-Engine ATPL or Restricted Multi-Engine Airline Pilot Certificate; FCC Radio License.
  • Flight time: Minimum 2,500 hours total time (4,000 preferred); 1,500 hours turbine (jet); 500 hours turbine PIC. Military candidates: minimum 1,000 hours total time.
  • Medical: Current FAA Class 1 Medical.
  • Travel documents: Current U.S. Passport; no restrictions on international travel.
  • Compliance: Ability to pass a 10-year security background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.
  • Readiness: Ability to successfully complete Kalitta Air’s Captain upgrade program on B747 or B777.
  • Communication: Ability to read, write, and understand English.

🌟 Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience as Check Airman, Assistant Chief Pilot, Chief Pilot, Fleet Manager, or Director of Operations at a FAR 121/135 carrier.
  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management or related field.
  • Prior Boeing aircraft operating experience.

🧩 Why This Role Matters

As a key member of Flight Operations leadership, you’ll elevate pilot performance, strengthen safety and compliance, and directly influence how a global cargo airline executes complex missions every day—while keeping your hands on the controls.

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