When an airline operates flights using a charter partner with a valid AOC, the airline is still responsible for several key operational areas at the airfield. Charter and ACMI operations are a fascinating part of aviation, blending flexibility with operational complexity.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential positions and responsibilities that the airline must cover:
1. Ground Operations & Handling Supervision
Even though the ACMI provider supplies the aircraft and crew, the airline (customer airline) remains responsible for ensuring ground operations run smoothly.
Key positions:
✅ Ground Operations Coordinator – Ensures the correct procedures are followed on the ground, including check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.
✅ Load Control / Weight & Balance Officer – Ensures that aircraft loading is done according to safety and performance calculations.
✅ Ramp Coordinator (Turnaround Supervisor) – Monitors aircraft servicing, fueling, catering, and loading/unloading activities.
✅ Catering Supervisor – Coordinates food and beverage supply based on the airline’s requirements.
2. Passenger & Customer Service
Since the airline is responsible for ticket sales and customer experience, it must provide the necessary ground staff for passenger handling.
Key positions:
✅ Check-in & Boarding Agents – Handle passenger check-in, baggage drop, and boarding procedures.
✅ Gate Supervisor – Coordinates gate assignments and boarding announcements.
✅ Customer Service Representatives – Assist passengers with inquiries, special requests, and disruptions (delays, rebookings, etc.).
✅ Baggage Services – Handles lost/delayed baggage issues on behalf of the airline.
3. Flight Dispatch & Operations Control
Although the ACMI provider handles flight operations under their AOC, the airline still needs to coordinate scheduling and ensure regulatory compliance.
Key positions:
✅ Operations Control Center (OCC) Coordinator – Liaises between the ACMI provider’s dispatch team and the airline’s network operations.
✅ Slot & ATC Coordinator – Ensures the flight receives proper airport slots and air traffic clearances.
✅ Irregular Operations (IROPS) Manager – Handles flight disruptions, diversions, and contingency planning.
4. Security & Safety Oversight
The airline must ensure that all security and safety measures comply with local and international regulations.
Key positions:
✅ Security Officer – Ensures compliance with airport and airline security regulations.
✅ Safety Coordinator – Monitors ground safety practices and oversees compliance with SMS (Safety Management System) standards.
5. Fuel & Cost Control Management
Although ACMI providers often arrange for aircraft fueling, cost management remains with the airline.
Key positions:
✅ Fuel Procurement Manager – Ensures fuel is sourced at competitive prices based on the airline’s agreements.
✅ Billing & Cost Control Officer – Monitors airport handling, landing fees, and other operational costs.
6. Crew Coordination & Hotel Accommodation
While the ACMI provider supplies the crew, the airline may still be responsible for logistics such as hotels, transport, and crew rotations.
Key positions:
✅ Crew Logistics Coordinator – Arranges crew accommodation, transport, and layover management.
✅ Crew Relations Manager – Acts as the contact point between the airline and ACMI crew.
Summary: What the Airline Covers in ACMI Operations at the Airfield
| Area | Airline Responsibility? | Who Handles It? |
| Ticket Sales & Revenue Management | ✅ Yes | Airline |
| Aircraft & Crew | ❌ No | ACMI provider |
| Ground Handling Supervision | ✅ Yes | Airline’s ground ops team |
| Check-in & Boarding | ✅ Yes | Airline’s handling agent |
| Gate & Customer Service | ✅ Yes | Airline’s ground staff |
| Flight Dispatch & OCC Monitoring | ✅ Yes | Airline’s operations team |
| ATC Slot Management | ✅ Yes | Airline’s network planning |
| Fueling & Cost Control | ✅ Yes | Airline’s procurement team |
| Security & Safety Compliance | ✅ Yes | Airline’s safety/security teams |
| Crew Transport & Hotels | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Airline or ACMI (depending on contract) |
Final Thoughts
While the Charter provider takes care of aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance, the airline still manages many airport-related services to ensure a seamless passenger experience and operational efficiency.