As planes arrive and depart, a line service technician provides ground support. This member of the ground crew may be responsible for turning planes around to prepare them for the next flight, dealing with customer service issues, and maintaining a safe and orderly environment. Depending on the nature of their contract, airlines may hire their own technicians or rely on staff provided an airport. There are no specific educational requirements for becoming a line service technician, but having a driver’s license is advantageous.
Refueling operations are one aspect of this job. The line service technician maintains fueling tanks and trucks, fuels planes when they require aviation gas, and inspects fueling systems for signs of damage. At the same time, any other damage to an aircraft’s exterior can be reported, allowing other ground crew to inspect the plane and determine whether it is safe to fly. Customers’ safety is also monitored line service technicians when they come into contact with the tarmac, which is common with small planes.
Line service technicians can direct planes as they arrive and depart, forming orderly lines for passengers to wait for clearance to take off or approach specific gates to deplane. This may entail putting in place equipment on the ground to provide air conditioning and other services so that the plane’s interior remains comfortable. Some planes may require towing, which may necessitate the services of a line service technician. These employees also deal with baggage, which they process to help planes load and unload more quickly and smoothly.
The job requires a high level of attention to safety. Line service technicians, like other ground crew, wear protective gear such as vests for visibility and ear plugs to reduce the risk of hearing loss. They also keep an eye on the safety of the crew and passengers on board. They are the most likely to see every part of an aircraft before it leaves the gate, and they may notice safety issues such as loose bolts, tears, and other abnormalities on the aircraft’s exterior.
Airlines and aviation service companies that have job openings usually advertise them in trade publications and other places where potential candidates might look. Physical fitness, a valid driver’s license, and a high school diploma are all possible requirements for becoming a line service technician. Experience with aviation or heavy equipment is not required for line service technicians, but it can help and may make an applicant more competitive. Depending on the employer, some jobs may include benefits.