How to Become an Airline Quality Assurance Specialist: A Comprehensive Guide

With safety as the airline industry’s number-one priority, airline quality assurance specialists play a pivotal role. This guide offers insights into their mission of safeguarding the integrity of aviation operations, in compliance with the industry’s rigorous safety standards. Read on to find out more about why a job in this field is worth having, what qualifications it takes to enter the field of airline quality assurance, and how to start your journey to becoming an airline quality assurance specialist.

What is a day in the life of an airline quality assurance specialist? 

A typical day for an airline quality assurance specialist is dynamic and varied, involving a mix of office work, field inspections, and meetings. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect: 

• Conduct inspections and audits:The aim of such audits is to ensure compliance with regulations and internal policies and procedures (quality management system – QMS).
  • Carry out internal audits in the areas of aircraft engineering and maintenance, flight operations, operational control (flight dispatch), cabin operations, ground handling, or cargo operations.
  • Carry out external audits of vendors, suppliers and service providers.
  • Write up detailed reports that evaluate results and provide recommendations.
  • Initiate corrective action, send follow-up communications, and verify implementation. 

• Ensure maintenance of documentation: An airline’s QMS documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for achieving quality policies and objectives, and needs to be continuously improved.
  • Stay up to date with industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
  • Monitor QMS documentation.
  • Draft new documents and updates. 

• Support training: Training is essential in ensuring quality. People need to be informed of the appropriate way to proceed.
  • Provide appropriate training.
  • Review and update training when necessary.
  • Ensure publications from external vendors, suppliers and service providers are properly notified and access to them is provided. 

• Work with a wide range of people and functions: With such a varied range of responsibilities, you will of course come into contact with a wide range of people, of all levels, all backgrounds, and varied experience.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address quality issues and implement corrective actions.
  • Liaise with internal departments and external providers on quality matters.  

What are the essential skills and capabilities required in this role? 

Not all these skills are required from the outset. Some, such as specific knowledge, will be seen as an asset for an entry-level position. 

• Knowledge
  • Educational background in an aviation-related field
  • Aviation regulations
  • Quality management systems
  • Safety management systems 

• Know-how
  • Problem-solving to devise effective solutions
  • Analyzing of data to determine root causes
  • Planning to prioritize workload and balance multiple assignments
  • Organizing to work efficiently and effectively 

• Abilities
  • Initiative, proactivity, resourcefulness and a sense of responsibility
  • Precision, thoroughness, meticulousness
  • Team spirit, and effective communication and collaboration
  • Desire for continuous improvement 

Why pursue a career as an airline quality assurance specialist?
There are many reasons for choosing this profession, but the most important motivation will always be the promise of a career that can evolve and give you a sense of purpose. 

• High demand and job security: The aviation sector is highly regulated, with both national and international standards that are constantly evolving. This consistent demand ensures steady employment opportunities for quality assurance specialists. The critical role QA specialists play in maintaining safety and operational integrity also implies greater job security. As aviation continues to expand globally, the need for skilled professionals remains high, making it a reliable career choice for those seeking stability and growth.  

• Impactful work: Quality assurance specialists contribute to the safety of millions of passengers worldwide. Your meticulous attention to detail, maintaining rigorous quality standards and conducting thorough audits and inspections, can prevent accidents and save lives. Each day brings the opportunity to make a tangible difference in aviation safety, underscoring the critical importance of your work in protecting passengers, crew, and the reputation of the airline industry.  

• Career growth opportunities: With the aviation industry’s ever-evolving nature, there are numerous opportunities for career advancement. Professionals in this field can progress into senior management roles, where they oversee broader aspects of quality assurance and operational integrity. This dynamic environment ensures that ambitious individuals, who continue to learn and develop their skills, can achieve rewarding careers with substantial opportunities for leadership and specialization within the sector.  
  

How to start your journey to becoming an airline quality assurance specialist?
Airline quality assurance specialists may come from another branch of aviation, such as engineering and manufacturing, or aircraft leasing and maintenance; may already be employed by an airline in another field; or may be newly qualified and looking for an interesting career opportunity. 

• Step 1 – Education: An education in aviation management, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline, to university level, is preferable. However, a college diploma can be augmented with specialized learning. The Advanced Master in Airline Operations from IATA, in association with ENAC, is an option worth exploring.  
• Step 2 – Training and certifications: Specialized, certified training in quality management systems, safety management systems, and safety standards will always be an asset.
  • If you are new to the field and want to prove your motivation, foundational training can give you a head start: 
    • QMS Fundamentals 
    • SMS Fundamentals 
    • Introduction to Risk-based IOSA  
  • If you want to add weight to your hands-on experience with a non-airline aviation organization, consider: 
    • Aviation Internal Auditor 
    • Quality Management Systems (QMS) for Airlines 
    • IOSA Airline Auditor Training
    • Risk-based IOSA Airline Training 
    • Safety Management Systems (SMS)  
    • Root Cause Analysis,  
    • Document Control Systems 
    • Safety Risk Management 

• Step 3 – Prepare your future career path: It’s never too early to think about the future. IATA offers opportunities to advance your career. 
  • Attend the IATA World Safety and Operations Conference, to learn about the latest industry trends, obtain insight and network with leading professionals in the field. 
  • Take an advanced course or diploma to continue learning and developing your skills, such as: 
    • Aviation Lead Auditor 
    • Airline Quality Management Diploma  
    • Advanced Safety Management Systems (SMS) in Civil Aviation 

Is it worth becoming an airline quality assurance specialist?

Becoming an airline quality assurance specialist is a fulfilling career choice, offering a blend of technical challenges and the satisfaction of ensuring passenger safety. By obtaining relevant education and certification, developing and refining the essential skills, and gaining practical experience, you can expect a rewarding career in this critical field. The journey may be demanding, but the impact you’ll make on air travel and the aviation industry will be immeasurable. 

Airline quality assurance specialists include Quality Assurance Auditors, QA Auditors, Quality Analysts, Quality Assurance Managers, and other similar titles.