When a student in Kerala says, “I want to work in Aviation,” what is the first image that pops into their parents’ minds? Usually, it’s one of two things: a pilot in a crisp uniform flying a massive jet, or a cabin crew member serving passengers with a smile.
For decades, the “Pilot or Air Hostess” narrative has dominated the conversation. And it makes sense—these are the visible faces of the industry. But here is the reality check that most students (and parents) miss: Pilots and Cabin Crew make up less than 10% of the entire aviation workforce.
The real engine of the aviation industry lies on the ground. It is in the Airport Managers who ensure thousands of passengers don’t miss their flights. It is in the Logistics Managers who ensure that fresh vaccines or the latest iPhones arrive in Kochi from Dubai overnight. It is in the Safety Officers who keep the runway secure.
With the Indian aviation sector projected to become the world’s third-largest by 2030, and with new Kerala-based players like Al Hind Air entering the market in 2025, the demand is shifting. Airlines and airports are desperate for skilled management professionals, not just flyers.
In this guide, we will break down the high-paying, secure, and prestigious careers in aviation that keep you grounded but let your salary fly high.
Before we look at the jobs, we need to understand why the jobs are opening up right now.
New Airlines & Routes: The Kerala-based Al Hind Air has received its initial approvals and is set to launch regional operations connecting Kochi to major metros. This isn’t just about flights; it’s about hundreds of new ground jobs—from ticketing to operations managers—right here in our state.
Tourism Boom: In 2024, India welcomed nearly 99.5 lakh foreign tourists, with a huge chunk entering via southern airports. More tourists mean busier airports, requiring larger teams for passenger handling and hospitality.
The “Gulf” Logistics Connection: Logistics is the backbone of the Kerala-Gulf economy. With e-commerce booming, the air cargo sector is growing faster than passenger travel.
This is the CEO of the terminal. An Airport Operations Manager is responsible for the entire heartbeat of the airport—from the moment a passenger steps out of their car at the drop-off zone to the moment their flight takes off.
What they do: They manage crowd flow, coordinate with security (CISF), oversee housekeeping and retail, and handle crisis situations (like flight delays or VIP movements).
Why it pays well: You are solving high-pressure problems in real-time. One mistake can delay 50 flights.
Salary Outlook: Entry-level positions start around ₹3–6 Lakhs per annum, but senior managers with experience easily cross ₹20 Lakhs per annum. In the UAE or Qatar, these roles can pay upwards of ₹70 Lakhs annually.
If you enjoy strategy and business, this is your field. Air cargo is not just about moving suitcases; it’s about moving global commerce.
What they do: They plan the route for cargo, handle customs clearance (a huge skill in India), manage warehouse inventory, and ensure “Cold Chain” integrity for sensitive items like medicines or food.
The Kerala Advantage: With Cochin International Airport (CIAL) handling massive cargo volumes for perishable goods (vegetables/fish to the Gulf), local expertise is highly valued.
Salary Outlook: Supply Chain Managers are among the highest earners in the corporate side of aviation, often starting at ₹6–8 LPA and reaching executive levels rapidly.
The “Station Manager” is the boss of an airline at a specific airport. For example, the Indigo Station Manager in Kannur is responsible for every Indigo flight and staff member at that airport.
What they do: They supervise check-in agents, ramp staff, and boarding gate crews. They also handle revenue targets for the station.
Career Path: You might start as a Guest Service Associate (checking passengers in), but with a BBA or MBA in Aviation, you can fast-track to Duty Manager and then Station Manager.
Aviation is an industry of zero error. Safety Managers are the auditors who ensure that rules are followed.
What they do: They conduct safety drills, audit processes, investigate minor incidents, and ensure the airport complies with DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) norms.
Why it’s prestigious: You have the authority to stop operations if safety is compromised. It requires a keen eye for detail.
Salary: Specialized roles like Safety Managers can earn between ₹80,000 to ₹1.5 Lakhs per month depending on the airline size.
While technical, this is a non-flying role with immense respect and high pay. Note: This usually requires specific entrance exams by AAI, but a management background helps in the administrative side of ATC.
What they do: They are the “traffic police” of the sky, guiding pilots for safe takeoff and landing.
Salary: One of the most stable government jobs in aviation, with salaries ranging from ₹80,000 to ₹1.5 Lakhs/month.
At Sky Wings Academy, we meet hundreds of students who are interested but scared. Let’s debunk the myths that hold them back.
Myth #1: “I need to be a Science student to get a good job.”
Fact: False. While Pilots and Engineers need Physics/Maths, the management side (Airport Management, Logistics, Hospitality) is open to Commerce and Arts students. A BBA in Airline & Airport Management is the perfect degree for commerce students to enter this field.
Myth #2: “Aviation courses are too expensive.”
Fact: Commercial Pilot training can cost ₹50 Lakhs+. However, a BBA or MBA in Aviation costs a fraction of that—comparable to a standard engineering or management degree—but offers a much faster Return on Investment (ROI) due to high entry-level salaries.
Myth #3: “I need to be 6ft tall and look like a model.”
Fact: This applies strictly to Cabin Crew (and even there, standards are changing). For Airport Managers, Logistics Coordinators, or Ground Staff, your grooming, communication skills, and problem-solving ability matter far more than your height or complexion.
Myth #4: “There are no jobs in Kerala.”
Fact: Kerala is the only state in India with 4 International Airports. With the new Al Hind Air launching and tourism bouncing back, the local demand is higher than ever.
You don’t need to figure this out alone. The industry prefers candidates who are “Day 1 Ready”—meaning they understand airport codes, safety terminologies, and customer service protocols before they join.
This is where a specialized degree makes the difference. At Sky Wings Academy of Aviation & Logistics, our BBA & MBA programs are designed not just to get you a degree, but to get you a career.
What we offer:
Industry-Embedded Curriculum: Learn what airports actually use today, not outdated theory.
Grooming & Soft Skills: We train you to look and speak like an aviation professional.
100% Placement Assistance: Our alumni are working in top airlines and airports globally.
The runway is clear. Are you ready to take off?
Q: Which is the highest paying job in airport management?
A: Senior Airport Operations Managers and Air Traffic Controllers are among the highest paid, with salaries often exceeding ₹20 Lakhs per annum in India.
Q: Can a Commerce student join aviation?
A: Yes! Commerce students are ideal candidates for BBA in Airline & Airport Management, leading to careers in ground handling, logistics, and airport operations.
Q: Is the aviation industry growing in Kerala?
A: Absolutely. With the launch of new airlines like Al Hind Air and the expansion of 4 international airports, Kerala is a major aviation hub.
