Head Of Airport Planning

Role Summary:

The Head of Airport Planning is responsible for leading and coordinating the planning and development of airport and infrastructure and aviation facilities across AD Airports. The role focuses on delivering high-quality master planning, capacity assessments, and planning studies that support the organizations long-term growth while meeting near-term operational and project delivery needs.

The incumbent manages a team of planners and consultants to ensure all planning deliverables including capacity analysis, master plan updates, and project definitions are completed accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with regulatory and corporate standards. The role also provides technical guidance, analytical support, and planning input to capital investment projects to ensure alignment with operational, regulatory, and environmental requirements.

Major Areas of Responsibility:

• Planning & Technical Delivery
• Project Definition & Support
• Stakeholder Coordination
• Regulatory Compliance & Governance
• Budget & Resource Management
• People Management

Top Competencies Required:

• Technical expertise in airport and airfield planning.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Expert knowledge of airport/urban/environmental planning practices and procedures, with strong background in Master Planning and other related planning studies for small/medium/large airports.
• Expert knowledge of ICAO, IATA and FAA airport planning and design standards, circulars and recommended practices as well as other international and local regulatory standards to ensure project compliance with national laws.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD, GIS, CAST and/or other airport planning, design and/or simulation applications
• Strong analytical, presentation and writing skills
• Strong understanding of aviation industry operations, infrastructure planning standards, and regulatory frameworks (GCAA, ICAO).
• Experience working within the Middle East or similar multicultural environments preferred.

Required Experience, Education & Qualification

• 10+ years of progressive experience in airport planning and development, including terminal and airfield planning
• Proven experience managing planning studies and consultant teams for large, complex airport projects (greenfield and brownfield)
• Bachelors degree in Airport Planning, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Urban Planning
• Masters degree preferred

At Abu Dhabi Airports, we are shaping the future of aviation in the region. Join a team where your expertise can make a real impact in ensuring world-class operational safety and efficiency. Apply today and join our team!