Aircraft Dispatch Apprenticeship - Indianapolis, IN
Posted on December 21, 2025
Republic Airways is a leading regional airline dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient air travel across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. With a strong commitment to operational excellence and passenger safety, Republic Airways operates over 1,000 daily flights. The company is known for its dynamic work environment and dedication to its employees, offering continuous opportunities for career advancement and professional development. Republic Airways Aircraft Dispatchers are represented by the Transport Workers Union Local 540, emphasizing a supportive and collaborative workplace culture. The Aircraft Dispatcher Apprenticeship Program at Republic Airways offers an exceptional pathway for individuals looking to build a career in the aviation industry. This program is designed to train candidates to become highly skilled Aircraft Dispatchers who play a critical role in the airline's system operations control center, the core hub of operational decision-making and flight safety management.
The role of an Aircraft Dispatcher at Republic Airways is both challenging and vital to airline operations. Dispatchers are responsible for planning flight routes, filing flight plans with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and communicating critical safety information to pilots during flight to navigate weather conditions and operational challenges. This position requires close collaboration with pilots and other airline personnel to ensure crew, passenger, and aircraft safety on every flight. Dispatchers are authorized to regulate and control flights according to government regulations and company policies, ensuring timely and safe operations throughout the daily flight schedules.
The Aircraft Dispatcher Apprenticeship Program is a comprehensive training initiative that lasts six to eight weeks and requires full attendance without interruption. Apprentices earn an hourly wage of $15 during the certification process. Once certified and onboarded, dispatchers begin at a starting pay rate of $22 per hour, with regular opportunities for internal career advancement available. Candidates must be at least 23 years old and proficient in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English. They must also be willing to relocate to Indianapolis for the duration of the program and subsequent employment. The apprenticeship program requires a commitment to work at Republic Airways for at least two years after certification, ensuring participants have a stable and rewarding career path.
Successful candidates must meet stringent eligibility standards, including passing FAA-required background checks, maintaining a valid US or foreign passport, and complying with drug and alcohol testing protocols. Dispatchers must be able to perform their duties in a high-stress, fast-paced environment, making quick, informed decisions while maintaining professionalism and composure during emergencies. The physical demands of the position include the ability to sit for extended periods and effectively communicate via telephone and radio headsets in environments with ambient noise.
Republic Airways values individuals with strong communication, customer service, problem-solving, and mathematical skills. While a high school diploma or equivalent is required, a bachelor’s degree and prior experience in airline operations are preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to understand and interpret technical procedures and governmental regulations are essential to success in this role. The work schedule involves shifts during nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays, reflecting the airline's commitment to 24-hour operational support.
Aircraft Dispatchers at Republic Airways not only ensure flight safety and operational efficiency but also contribute to an exceptional passenger experience by coordinating diversions and crew changes seamlessly. This apprenticeship program offers an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals to begin a fulfilling career in aviation with one of the industry’s reputable regional airlines.
- Be at least 23 years of age
- Able to read, speak, write and understand the English language
- Participate in the full six- to eight-week training without disruption or absences
- Relocate to Indianapolis for the apprenticeship program and subsequent position
- Agree to a minimum two-year employment commitment with Republic Airways following successful certification
- Pass FAA required 10-year work history review
- Pass criminal background and fingerprint checks
- Possess and maintain a valid US or foreign passport
- Authorized by law to work in the United States and able to travel in and out of the country
- Submit to and pass FAA and company-mandated random drug and alcohol tests
- Able to work nights, evenings, weekends and holidays
- Able to sit for prolonged periods
- Able to hear clearly verbal communications in person, on the phone and over a headset with ambient noise