The recent bankruptcy announcements for Northwest and Delta Airlines has sent a shudder through the aviation industry as expected job cuts loom and possible further bankruptcy filings are considered. These are not good days for many carriers as high legacy costs, pricey jet fuel, and inefficient management practices have worked together to bring down some of the bigger names out there. Fortunately, all is not bleak in the industry and, in fact, many jobs are being created for the opportunistic person. Knowing where to look can present a challenge, but finding the right job can be a rewarding experience. Lets take a look at some options that may be right for you.

Discount Carriers. Led by Southwest Airlines and JetBlue, discount carriers continue to grow stronger while legacy carriers [including American, Continental, Delta, United, Northwest, and USAir] struggle. Many discount carriers were born during a period of deregulation that has gained strength since the 1980s which gave discount carriers a place to grow. Only the fittest have survived and they are the industry job makers today.

Airport Operations. Your local airport is staffed by people who manage the facility on behalf of airport operators. Besides government workers who man the towers and provide security, every airport has a staff of personnel to assist in the management of the facility. Common positions include building and grounds maintenance, marketing, customer relations, and administration. Find out which airports are in your area, who is managing that airport, and then apply directly to the managing company.

Government. The Federal Aviation Administration or FAA is tasked with regulating the aviation industry. FAA jobs are listed on their own site at www.faa.gov and they are always looking for capable and experienced personnel. In addition, many state and local governments manage and regulate airports and are a good source of employment as well.

Private Jet Operators. A segment of the industry not understood by some is business aviation. Private jets carrying individuals, families, business people, and more operate from airports all over the country. These companies have their own staff of flight coordinators, dispatchers, pilots, technicians, flight attendants, administrators, and more. Leading operators include: Netjets, Executive Jet Management, Jet Aviation, TAG Aviation, Atlantic Aviation, Flight Options, Flexjet, Regal Aviation, Pacific Jet, New World Aviation, and more. Apply directly to each company for employment.

Private Companies. Some corporations own and manage their own fleet of jets. In these cases they have their own in house flight department consisting of pilots, flight attendants, maintenance technicians, flight support personnel, administrators, and more. Jobs are listed through major employment sites including Monster, Career Builder, and the Aviation Employment Board.

If working in the aviation industry is appealing to you, these options present alternatives to the traditional legacy carriers. The world is changing and with it are the opportunities. Keeping your options open by looking in the right places will help you successfully navigate this ever changing and exciting industry.