Chief Pilot - LGA

Endeavor Air • Flushing, NY

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Base Chief Pilot serves as the senior Flight Operations leader at the base and is responsible for flight safety, regulatory compliance, operational performance, aircraft-related pilot support, and flight standards. The Chief Pilot acts as the primary technical and operational authority for the pilot group while serving as a key liaison between line pilots and Flight Operations leadership. The role focuses on the safe, dependable, and standardized execution of flight operations. The Chief Pilot partners closely with the Base Manager in a dual-leadership model, ensuring the base operates safely, efficiently, and in alignment with company objectives. This position will receive an FQM override.

Requirements

• Must hold an FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate, and meet 14 CFR 119.67 qualifications (e.g., appropriate PIC experience) to serve as a Part 121 Chief Pilot.
• Must be an active Endeavor Air Captain at time of hiring with a minimum of 500 hours as an Endeavor Pilot in Command (PIC) OR 12 months as PIC.
• Must meet minimum of 24 fly days per year.
• Preferred to have 12+ months eligibility prior to movement to CAP.
• Bachelor’s degree in aviation, management, or related field preferred (equivalent work experience will be considered).
• 5 years of experience in airline flight operations with progressive leadership responsibilities desired.
• Prior roles such as Flight Instructor, Check Airman, Asst Chief Pilot, or Flight Operations Manager at a Part 121 airline strongly desired.
• Experience in a regional airline environment is a plus.
• Thorough knowledge of FAA regulations (FARs), company operations specifications, and pilot collective bargaining agreement provisions.
• Demonstrated understanding of Safety Management Systems, crew resource management principles, and industry best practices for pilot leadership and development.
• Proficiency with relevant computer systems and software (e.g., MS Office, crew management systems).
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a regional airline environment is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all applicable FAA regulations, company policies, Operations Specifications, Flight Operations Manual (FOM), and safety requirements.
• Actively participate in the Safety Management System (SMS), supporting safety reporting, hazard identification, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Champion a strong safety culture through visible leadership, communication, and engagement with flight crews.
• Support investigations involving operational events, safety concerns, procedural deviations, or operational performance issues and ensure corrective actions are implemented when appropriate.
• Promote standardization and consistent application of procedures, policies, and best practices across the pilot group.
• Serve as the primary operational and technical authority for the base regarding flight execution and aircraft operations.
• Maintain ownership of operational performance related to flight operations, including: On-Time Performance (OTP), Completion Factor, Operational Reliability, and flight operation-related delays.
• Conduct root-cause analysis for operational performance deficiencies and implement corrective action plans.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for aircraft-related pilot concerns, including aircraft handling and performance issues, procedural inconsistencies, MEL/CDL operational impacts, and flight deck operational concerns.
• Partner with Maintenance, Dispatch, System Operations Control (SOC), Safety, and other operational departments to resolve operational issues and improve reliability.
• Provide operational leadership during irregular operations and other situations requiring technical expertise and operational decision-making.
• Serve as the primary Flight Operations liaison with airport stakeholders on technical and operational matters.
• Maintain working relationships with: Airport Operations, Air Traffic Control (ATC), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and other airport authorities.
• Monitor and assess impacts associated with: airport construction projects, runway and taxiway changes, NOTAMs, airfield safety concerns, and surface movement issues.
• Coordinate communication and mitigation strategies related to operational and safety impacts affecting flight crews.
• Provide coaching and mentorship related to technical proficiency, operational decision-making, and procedural compliance.
• Support implementation of new procedures, operational bulletins, aircraft initiatives, and technical guidance.
• Function as the primary liaison between line pilots and Flight Operations leadership on operational and technical matters.
• Gather and communicate pilot feedback regarding operational challenges, aircraft performance, and procedural concerns.
• Support the development and distribution of technical communications and flight operations guidance.
• Promote continuous improvement in operational competence, professionalism, and flight standards.
• Manages pilot investigations and discipline and administers corrective action in accordance with company policy, established practices, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Maintain a visible presence throughout the operation by routinely engaging with flight crews in crew rooms, on the concourse, and on the flight line.
• Conduct regular informal crew interactions to identify operational concerns and emerging trends.
• Monitor chronic operational performance challenges identified through OCC, SOC, or operational reporting.
• Remain accessible to pilots outside of the formal office environment.
• Reinforce a culture of safety, professionalism, accountability, and operational excellence.
• Analyze operational trends and performance data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Lead initiatives that improve: Safety, Standardization, Reliability, Efficiency, and Operational effectiveness.
• Collaborate with Flight Operations leadership and other Chief Pilots to establish and share best practices.
• Support company initiatives designed to enhance operational performance and customer experience.
• Work closely with the Flight Operations Base Manager to present united leadership at the base and ensure the base runs safely and efficiently.
• Other duties as assigned
• The Base Chief Pilot provides technical leadership and operational oversight for the pilot group.
• The position may supervise Assistant Chief Pilots and other Flight Operations personnel as assigned.
• In partnership with the Base Manager, the Chief Pilot co-leads the base Flight Operations team, ensuring consistent guidance, support, and communication for all base personnel.

Benefits

• Free or reduced-rate travel privileges on Delta Air Lines and 80+ air carriers worldwide for employees and eligible family members
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
• 401(k) with Company Match starting on Day 1
• Operational Performance Rewards (OPR) Program
• Life and AD&D Insurance, Short and Long-term Disability, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and voluntary supplementary benefit options

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior