Is Air Freight/Delivery Services a Good Career Path in 2023

Although though e-commerce has recently slowed down due to globalization, a full turnaround is not anticipated because demand for air freight and delivery services is still rising. In reality, the sector now generates billions of dollars annually, and growth is predicted over the next five years.

So, is air freight/delivery services a good career path? The need for workers in this industry grows along with the demand for these services. Various jobs in this sector have distinct skill requirements and pay differently. Is it wise to pursue a profession in air freight and delivery services?

What are Air Freight/delivery Services?

Transport services that include the shipment of commodities or products by air include air freight and delivery services. These services are generally employed when delivering things quickly and effectively, such as transporting perishable items or time-sensitive parcels.

Typically, air freight services use cargo planes to move merchandise from one place to another. These aircraft are built primarily to transport heavy loads of cargo, and they come with specialist equipment to make sure the cargo is properly housed and safeguarded while in transit. You can make both domestic and foreign shipments via air freight services.

In general, air freight and delivery services are a crucial component of the global logistics business since they offer a quick method of shipping goods over great distances.

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Is air freight/delivery services a good career path?

Air freight and delivery services can offer a variety of career opportunities, and for the right person, it can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path. Some of the potential benefits of pursuing a career in air freight and delivery services include:

  1. Career Advancement: The air freight and delivery services industry offers a wide range of career paths and opportunities for advancement, including management positions, specialized roles, and opportunities to move into other areas of the industry.
  2. Job Security: The demand for air freight and delivery services is typically high, which can offer job security for those working in the industry.
  3. Competitive Salaries: The salaries for air freight and delivery service careers can be competitive, particularly for those with specialized skills or experience.
  4. Opportunities for Travel: There may be opportunities to travel to different parts of the world for those working in the aviation industry, which can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

However, like any career path, there may also be challenges and potential drawbacks to working in air freight and delivery services, such as long hours, unpredictable schedules, and high levels of stress or pressure. It is important to carefully consider your interests, skills, and long-term career goals when deciding whether this industry fits you.

What Qualifications Are Needed To Work in Air Freight Delivery Services?

Air freight delivery services are a crucial component of the global logistics industry. With the rise of e-commerce and international trade, there is a growing demand for professionals with the skills and qualifications necessary to work in this field.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in air freight delivery services, it is vital to understand the qualifications required to succeed in this field.

1. Education and Training

A strong educational background is one of the most important qualifications for working in air freight delivery services. Many employers require at least a high school diploma or GED, but a college degree in logistics or a related field can be a significant advantage. A degree in business, management, or transportation can also be beneficial.

In addition to formal education, training and certification are also important. There are a number of professional organizations that offer certification programs for individuals working in logistics and transportation, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), and the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA).

These programs can help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the air freight delivery services industry.

2. Experience

While education and training are important, experience is also a crucial qualification for working in air freight delivery services. Many employers prefer candidates who have at least a few years of experience in logistics or transportation, as this demonstrates that they have a strong understanding of the industry and can handle the challenges that come with the job.

Experience can be gained through internships, entry-level positions, or working in related fields such as trucking or ocean freight. In addition to developing industry-specific skills, individuals with experience in these fields may also have strong customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in the air freight delivery services industry.

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3. Technical Skills

The air freight delivery services industry is highly dependent on technology, so strong technical skills are another important qualification for this field. Individuals working in air freight delivery services need to use various software programs to track shipments, manage inventory, and communicate with customers and suppliers.

They also need to have a good understanding of logistics management systems and the use of data analytics to improve operational efficiency.

Other technical skills that are highly valued in the air freight delivery services industry include experience with GPS systems, knowledge of safety regulations and compliance requirements, and familiarity with international trade and customs regulations.

4. Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are essential for success in the air freight delivery services industry. Professionals in this field must communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and team members in various settings, including in person, over the phone, and via email.

In addition to being able to communicate clearly and effectively, individuals working in air freight delivery services also need to be able to listen actively and understand the needs and concerns of others. This is particularly important when dealing with international customers or suppliers, who may have different cultural expectations and communication styles.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability

The air freight delivery services industry is constantly changing, so professionals in this field need to be flexible and adaptable. This means working well under pressure, adjusting to schedule or shipping requirements changes, and being willing to take on new responsibilities as needed.

Individuals working in air freight delivery services also need to work well in a team environment, as logistics and transportation require collaboration and coordination across multiple departments and organizations.

With the length of qualifications, one can’t help but ask if air freight/delivery services a good career path.

Highest Paying jobs in Air Freight Delivery Services

While there are many job roles in air freight delivery services, some offer higher salaries than others. This article will explore some of the highest paying jobs in air freight delivery services.

1. Air Traffic Controllers

Air traffic controllers play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air traffic. They monitor and direct the movement of aircraft, including coordinating takeoff and landing procedures and monitoring weather conditions.

In the air freight delivery services industry, air traffic controllers play a key role in ensuring that cargo planes and other aircraft can safely and efficiently transport goods and supplies across the globe.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for air traffic controllers was $129,750 in May 2021 with a projected growth rate in 2023.

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However, this job also requires extensive training and education, including a four-year degree and specialized training through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Air traffic controllers must also be able to pass rigorous physical and psychological exams and regular drug tests.

2. Airplane pilots

Airline pilots must fly commercial aircraft, including cargo planes used in air freight delivery services,. They must be able to deal with a variety of difficulties, such as bad weather, technical problems, and other emergencies because they are in charge of securely carrying passengers and cargo to their destination.

The BLS reports that in May 2021, the median yearly salary for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers was $202,180.

A commercial pilot’s license, an air transport pilot (ATP) certificate, and at least 1,500 hours of flight experience are also prerequisites for this position. In addition, airline pilots must satisfy ongoing training and certification requirements and periodic physical and drug testing.

3. Aviation mechanics and service personnel

Aviation mechanics and service personnel repair and maintain aircraft, notably cargo planes used in air freight delivery services,. They must be able to troubleshoot and identify complicated mechanical difficulties as they examine and fix different parts of aircraft, such as engines, electrical systems, and landing gear.

The BLS reports that, the median annual salary for aviation mechanics and service technicians was $65,230. But, skilled technicians who focus on a specific type of aircraft, such cargo planes, could be able to command higher pay.

Technicians must be able to pass routine drug tests and physical examinations, and this position requires specialized training and certification.

4. Logistics Managers

The management of the movement of supplies and goods through the air freight delivery services sector is crucially important.

They organize transportation routes, keep an eye on inventory levels, and ensure shipments arrive on schedule and on budget. Also, they must be able to collaborate closely with clients and suppliers to resolve any potential problems or challenges.

The BLS reported that the median annual salary for logistics managers was $77,270. However,, seasoned logistics managers who operate in the air freight delivery services sector can make substantially more money.

A bachelor’s degree in logistics, business, or a related discipline, as well as good organizational and communication abilities, are requirements for this position.

5. Managers of Transportation, Storage, and Distribution

Managers of transportation, storage, and distribution keep an eye on how products are moved across the supply chain, particularly via air freight services. They are in charge of planning transportation routes, running the warehouse, and ensuring shipments arrive on schedule and undamaged.

Also, they must be able to lead a group of workers and collaborate closely with clients and suppliers to resolve any potential problems.

According to the BLS, transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn an average yearly salary of $97,630. Yet managers with experience who operate in the air freight delivery services sector might be able to make even more money. They need strong leadership and communication abilities for this position.

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6. Freight and cargo brokers

Cargo and freight agents are responsible for managing the flow of products and supplies through the air freight delivery services sector. They organize cargo and freight movement, including planning pick-up and delivery windows and keeping track of shipments.

To guarantee that shipments are delivered on schedule and in good shape, they must also be able to collaborate closely with carriers, customs agents, and other stakeholders.

According to the BLS, cargo and freight brokers earn an average salary of $45,490 annually. But seasoned agents in the air freight delivery services sector could be able to make more money. Strong organizational and communication abilities and some on-the-job training and experience are required for this position.

7. Customs Agents

Customs brokers are to make sure that shipments of supplies and goods adhere to all applicable laws and regulations. They must complete customs documentation and ensure that cargo is appropriately labeled and categorized.

In order to overcome any potential problems, they must also be able to collaborate closely with carriers, customs agents, and other stakeholders.

According to the BLS, customs brokers earn an average salary of $70,290 annually. But, seasoned brokers in the air freight delivery services field may be able to make much more money.

Excellent attention to detail, good analytical abilities, and a broker’s license from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection department are requirements for this position.

What are the pros and cons of freight/delivery services career

Here are some potential pros and cons of a career in freight and delivery services

Pros:

  • Career Advancement: The industry offers a variety of professional routes and chances for development, including management positions, specialized responsibilities, and chances to enter different facets of the sector.
  • Job Security: Employment security is possible due to the significant demand for air freight and delivery services, which favors people working in the sector.
  • Competitive Pay: Air freight and delivery service occupations can offer competitive pay, especially for those with specialized knowledge or expertise.
  • Travel Opportunities: Traveling to various locations across the world may be an exciting and rewarding experience for those working in the aviation sector.

Cons:

  1. Long Hours: Working in the air freight and delivery services industry may involve long hours and shift work, which can be challenging for some individuals.
  2. High-Stress Environment: The industry can be fast-paced and high-pressure, which can be stressful for some individuals.
  3. Risk of Injuries: Those working in the industry may be at risk of injury due to the physical demands of the job or the potential hazards of working around heavy machinery.
  4. Seasonal Fluctuations: The industry can be subject to seasonal fluctuations in demand, which can lead to periods of high stress and long hours, followed by periods of lower activity and reduced income.
  5. Limited Work-Life Balance: The industry’s demands may make it difficult to maintain a good work-life balance, particularly for those working in operational roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the career progression for a freight forwarder?

Many individuals advance from the post of freight forwarder to that of senior freight forwarder before moving on to become a shipping manager or export office manager. You can assist your professional development with training courses or professional credentials, which your employer may sponsor.

What is the difference between air freight and air cargo?

One of the primary distinctions between air cargo and air freight is that whereas air freight cannot be transported on passenger aircraft, cargo can. Only specially designed cargo aircraft are used to convey cargo via air.

Do freight forwarders make good money?

Depending on their level of experience, freight forwarders can earn between $27,780 and $69,890 annually.

Conclusion

In summary, is air freight/delivery services a good career path? A long-term career in the air freight delivery services sector can be extremely rewarding.

It is an excellent option for someone interested in the business and transportation sectors because of the high earning potential as employees gain expertise and climb the corporate ladder.

Individuals interested in pursuing one of the abovementioned occupations might go online for chances and training.

It’s important to update your resume, write a cover letter, and practice your interview techniques if you want to increase your chances of getting hired.

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