Overview Our client, a leading UK-based airline operating within a major international aviation group, is seeking a Network Planning Lead to support the strategic development and commercial performance of its short-haul route network.
Based within a fast-paced airline environment, this role offers the opportunity to shape network strategy, optimise route profitability, and influence long-term commercial growth across key European markets. The successful candidate will play a central role in driving data-led decision-making, evaluating market opportunities, and collaborating with senior stakeholders across commercial and operational teams.
This position is ideal for an experienced aviation commercial professional with expertise in network planning, route development, and airline economics.
Responsibilities - Lead the development of profitable commercial network plans aligned with market demand and business strategy
- Take ownership of route and network performance, reviewing commercial results and implementing strategic changes where required
- Develop and enhance evaluation methodologies to support:
- New route business cases
- Capacity growth initiatives
- Route suspension or reduction decisions
- Define the strategic direction for individual routes and ensure seasonal planning aligns with long-term network objectives
- Provide commercial leadership on:
- Capacity deployment
- Route launches and suspensions
- Financial modelling and scenario analysis
- Opportunity-cost assessments
- Collaborate with airports, tourism boards, and route development partners to identify growth opportunities and negotiate commercial agreements
- Lead cross-functional network strategy projects and drive stakeholder alignment across commercial and operational teams
- Build strong working relationships across the wider airline group to deliver commercially and operationally effective network solutions
- Represent the business on network planning matters across internal group functions and strategic forums
Requirements - Previous experience within network planning, route development, aviation strategy, or a related commercial aviation role
- Strong understanding of:
- Airline economics
- Route profitability
- Capacity planning
- Market demand dynamics
- Experience conducting financial analysis and interpreting route performance data
- Knowledge of competitor network strategies, airline scheduling, and customer purchasing behaviour
- Understanding of airline revenue management and pricing principles
- Strong analytical and commercial problem-solving skills with the ability to convert insights into actionable recommendations
- Excellent communication and presentation skills with experience influencing senior stakeholders
- Ability to manage competing priorities within a fast-paced operational environment
- Collaborative approach with experience working across commercial, planning, and operational teams
- Flexibility to travel and work across different operational bases where required
Benefits - Competitive salary package
- Industry-leading staff travel benefits, including standby flight access
- Discounted travel fares for family and friends
- Pension scheme
- Private healthcare options
- Cycle-to-work and electric vehicle schemes
- Employee discounts and travel industry perks
- Career progression and internal mobility opportunities within a global aviation group
- Inclusive and collaborative working culture
Application Process To apply, please submit your application through the relevant online application portal.
Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the recruitment process.