An airline crew planner is responsible for the complex logistical task of building and managing schedules for pilots and cabin crew members. Their primary goal is to ensure that every flight in the airline’s commercial program is properly staffed while strictly adhering to safety regulations, such as flight and duty time limitations (FTL). They must balance operational efficiency with crew well-being, taking into account factors like fatigue risk management, vacation requests, and training requirements. Crew planners use sophisticated software systems like AIMS or Jeppesen to track availability and modify rosters in real-time when disruptions—such as weather delays or mechanical issues—occur. Beyond daily scheduling, they collaborate with HR, Training, and Flight Operations departments to forecast future staffing needs and ensure that all crew members maintain the necessary qualifications and certifications to fly.