Business Aircraft Aviation Accountant

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Business Aircraft Aviation Accountant to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for managing all financial activities associated with the operation of owned and/or chartered business aircraft, including private jets. Your expertise will be instrumental in ensuring operational efficiency, maintaining compliance with aviation-specific financial regulations, and optimizing cost structures for private aircraft operations. This position requires a unique blend of specialized aviation accounting knowledge, operational finance acumen, and high-value asset management skills.

Core Responsibilities

The Business Aircraft Aviation Accountant will oversee a comprehensive range of financial duties, including but not limited to:

• Operational Cost Management:
  • Monitor, analyze, and control monthly operational expenses related to owned aircraft, encompassing crew salaries, fuel, maintenance, insurance, catering, ground services, and travel-related costs.
  • Process and verify vendor invoices, ensuring timely and accurate payments while maintaining detailed financial records.
• Invoice Verification & Reconciliation:
  • Conduct thorough verification and reconciliation of invoices against flight operations, operational requirements, and supporting documentation.
  • Ensure the accuracy of financial records and proper allocation of expenses across departments and projects.
• Flight Payback & Internal Invoicing:
  • Prepare and issue internal flight payback invoices upon completion of trips, ensuring timely submission for internal approval.
  • Monitor invoice postings and follow up with accounts receivable to ensure timely collections.
• Cash Float Reconciliation:
  • Perform monthly and ad-hoc reconciliations and adjustments for aircraft cash floats and driver cash floats to maintain financial integrity.
• Budgeting & Forecasting:
  • Develop, monitor, and manage operating budgets for aircraft operations, maintenance programs, upgrades, and modifications.
  • Prepare financial forecasts based on aircraft utilization trends and operational demand to support strategic decision-making.
• Aircraft Acquisition & Ownership Accounting:
  • Maintain precise financial records for aircraft purchases, leasing arrangements, and ownership structures.
  • Manage accounting for depreciation, lease terms, financing payments, and associated interest expenses.
• Audit Preparation & Compliance:
  • Support internal and external audits related to aircraft operations and ownership, ensuring compliance with aviation-specific financial regulations.
  • Provide accurate, complete, and well-documented financial records to facilitate audit processes.
• Cost Control & Optimization:
  • Identify and implement strategies to reduce and optimize operational and ownership costs while adhering to safety and compliance standards.
• Financial Reporting & Analysis:
  • Prepare and present regular financial reports that provide insights into operating cost efficiency, aircraft utilization, and expense trends.
  • Develop annual financial statements, including Income Statements, Balance Sheets, Cash Flow Statements, and Budget and Forecast Reports.

Qualifications & Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following educational and professional requirements:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • Professional certifications in aviation accounting or aviation finance are highly advantageous.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 3–7 years of progressive accounting experience, with a strong preference for roles within business aviation, private jet operations, or commercial airline environments.
  • Proven track record in managing financial aspects of aircraft operations, charter activities, aircraft acquisition and leasing, and maintenance and overhaul costs.
  • In-depth knowledge of aviation operations, maintenance environments, and civil aviation authorities' regulations and requirements.
  • Familiarity with aviation terminology, technologies, and abbreviations, as well as comprehensive understanding of aviation accounting practices, including fuel management, aircraft logbooks, MRO costs, and crew-related expenses.
  • Experience with MSP programs, such as engine programs, APU programs, and other aircraft maintenance programs.
  • Strong background in reviewing and interpreting aviation financial and commercial contracts, including charter agreements, aircraft management agreements, purchase agreements, maintenance contracts, and crew contracts.

Key Skills & Competencies

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:

• Financial Expertise: A robust understanding of accounting principles specific to business aircraft operational expenses, including fuel management, maintenance cost control, and high-value asset accounting.
• Analytical Proficiency: Exceptional ability to analyze financial data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to optimize cost structures and improve operational efficiency.
• Regulatory Compliance: Thorough knowledge of aviation-specific financial regulations, audit requirements, and compliance standards to ensure adherence to industry best practices.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with aviation accounting software, ERP systems, and financial reporting tools to streamline processes and enhance accuracy.
• Communication & Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to liaise effectively with cross-functional teams, including flight operations, maintenance, procurement, and senior management.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to financial record-keeping, reconciliation, and reporting to ensure precision and reliability in all financial activities.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to proactively identify cost-saving opportunities and resolve financial discrepancies while maintaining operational integrity.