Lead Air Operations for a Global Travel CompanyMayflower Cruises & Tours , a premier escorted tour operator and division of Scenic Group , is seeking an experienced Air Department Manager to oversee our Air Department from our Lisle, Illinois office.
Reporting directly to the Vice President of Operations, you will lead a team of Air Coordinators while managing all aspects of domestic and international air operations. This role is ideal for a travel professional with strong airline ticketing expertise, GDS proficiency, and a passion for delivering exceptional service to travelers.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, coach, and support the Air Department team to ensure efficient daily operations and exceptional customer service.
- Manage group air contracts.
- Oversee the booking, ticketing, reissuance, exchanges, refunds, and cancellations for domestic and international travel.
- Serve as the primary liaison with Sabre and Amadeus regarding GDS functionality, troubleshooting, and system enhancements.
- Prepare and submit weekly ARC reports while ensuring compliance with ARC regulations and airline policies.
- Coordinate airline seat assignments, upgrades, and special service requests.
- Partner closely with Sales, Operations, and Customer Service teams to communicate flight schedules, itinerary updates, and traveler requests.
- Monitor air pricing, schedule changes, and airline policies to optimize travel arrangements and operational efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company procedures, and quality standards.
- Identify opportunities to improve workflows, increase productivity, and enhance the customer experience.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in airline reservations, ticketing, or travel operations, with prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
- Proficiency in Sabre GDS is required.
- Experience with Amadeus GDS is preferred; training can be provided.
- Strong knowledge of domestic and international airfare construction, ticketing, exchanges, refunds, reissues, and airline fare rules.
- Experience managing group air bookings and contracts is highly desirable.
- Working knowledge of ARC reporting and travel industry regulations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative travel environment while managing multiple priorities.