Business Aircraft Aviation Accountant

Role OverviewA Business Aircraft Aviation Accountant is responsible for managing and overseeing all financial activities related to the operation of owned and/or chartered business aircraft (private jets).This role requires specialized expertise in aviation accounting, operational finance, charter activities, maintenance cost control, crew expenses, and high‑value asset management. The position ensures compliance with aviation‑specific financial regulations and supports cost efficiency for private aircraft operations.General Responsibilities1. Operational Cost ManagementTrack, review, and control monthly operational expenses related to owned aircraft, including but not limited to:Crew salaries, expenses and allowancesFuelMaintenanceInsuranceCateringGround servicesTickets and hotels expenses and costs.Process vendor and service supplier invoices and ensure timely payments.2. Invoice Verification & ReconciliationVerify and reconcile invoices against flight operations, requirements, and supporting receipts.Ensure accuracy of records and proper allocation of expenses.3. Flight Payback & Internal InvoicingPrepare and issue internal flight payback invoices upon trip completion.Submit invoices for internal approval, monitor postings, and follow up with accounts.4. Cash Float ReconciliationPerform monthly or ad‑hoc reconciliation and adjustment of:Aircraft cash floatsDriver cash floats5. Budgeting & ForecastingDevelop and monitor operating budgets for:Aircraft operationsMaintenance programsUpgrades and modificationsPrepare financial forecasts based on utilization and operational demand.6. Aircraft Acquisition & Ownership AccountingMaintain financial records for aircraft purchase, leasing, and ownership.Manage accounting for:DepreciationLease termsFinancing payments and interest7. Audit PreparationSupport internal and external audits related to aircraft operations and ownership.Ensure accuracy, compliance, and completeness of financial records.8. Cost Control & OptimizationIdentify opportunities to reduce and optimize operational and ownership costs while maintaining safety and compliance standards.9. Financial ReportingPrepare regular financial reports providing insight into:Operating cost efficiencyAircraft utilizationExpense trends10. Financial StatementsPrepare annual financial statements, including:Income StatementBalance SheetCash Flow StatementBudget and Forecast ReportsEducationBachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related fieldProfessional certifications in aviation accounting or aviation finance are considered a strong advantageExperience3–7 years of accounting experience, preferably within:Business aviationPrivate jet operationsCommercial airline operationsProven experience managing financial aspects of:Aircraft operationsCharter activitiesAircraft acquisition and leasingMaintenance and overhaul costsStrong familiarity with aviation operations and maintenance environments.Knowledge of civil aviation authorities, aviation terminology, regulations, technologies, and abbreviations.Comprehensive understanding of aviation accounting practices, including:Fuel management and calculationsAircraft logbooksMaintenance and MRO costsFlight and ground operationsAirport and navigation feesOverflight permits and permissionsCrew‑related expensesStrong knowledge of MSP programs, including:Engine programsAPU programsOther aircraft maintenance programsSolid experience reviewing aviation financial and commercial contracts, including:Charter agreementsAircraft management agreementsAircraft purchase agreementsMaintenance and service contractsCrew contractsKey Skills1. Financial ExpertiseStrong command of accounting principles related to business aircraft operational expenses and ownership costs.2. Attention to DetailAbility to manage high‑value assets and ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.3. Analytical SkillsStrong capabilities in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis for complex aviation operations.4. Regulatory & Tax KnowledgeIn‑depth understanding of aviation‑related tax regulations, including:DepreciationUse and VAT taxesTax planning and deductions5. Software ProficiencyExperience with financial and ERP systems, including:OracleFinancial portalsMicrosoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)6. Communication SkillsAbility to clearly communicate financial data and insights to:Aircraft ownersSenior executivesOperational and maintenance teams7. Problem‑SolvingAbility to address financial challenges related to:Unexpected operational costsRegulatory or contract changesOther RequirementsStrong understanding of:Business aircraft operationsChartering modelsAircraft management and fractional ownershipKnowledge of aviation tax structures and financial complexities of high‑value aircraft operations.Excellent organizational skills and the ability to perform in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment.