Aircraft Dispatcher
Certificate of Achievement Aviation and Aerospace Sciences · Orange Coast College · 2026-2027 Catalog
In cooperation with the pilot, the flight dispatcher furnishes a flight plan that enables the aircraft to arrive at its destination on schedule with the maximum payload and the least operating cost. The flight dispatcher considers en route and destination weather, winds aloft, alternate destinations, fuel required, altitudes, and traffic flow. The dispatcher's signature, along with that of the pilot, releases the aircraft for flight. The dispatcher maintains a constant watch on all flights dispatched, and is responsible in joint agreement with the airline captain for flight planning, route and altitude selection, fuel load requirements, aircraft legality and complying with FAA regulations. The dispatcher is the go-between for the pilot and ground service personnel, and keeps all personnel concerned with the flight informed about its status. The dispatcher must be familiar with navigation facilities over airline routes and at airports as well as with the takeoff, cruising, and landing characteristics of all aircraft operated by the airline. The flight dispatcher also must ride periodically in the cockpit with the flight crew to observe flight routes, conditions, and airports.
Program Outcome
Program Learning Outcomes
- Students will develop the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for completion of aircraft dispatcher training and succesful completion of federally administered knowledge and practical tests for aircraft dispatcher certification.
Requirements
Review Certificate Requirements.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| APT A130 | Private Pilot Aviation Ground School | 5 |
| APT A132 | Aviation Navigation | 3 |
| APT A133 | Aviation-Meteorology | 3 |
| APT A134 | Instrument Pilot Aviation Ground School | 3 |
| APT A139 | Commercial Pilot Aviation Ground School | 3 |
| APT A145 | Airline Transport Pilot Ground | 3 |
| APT A150 | Aircraft Dispatcher | 5 |
| Total Units | 25 | |
Program Sequence
Program Sequence
These sequences at Orange Coast College are curriculum maps for students to finish all requirements for the certificate. There may be advisories, prerequisites, or time requirements that students need to consider before following these maps. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor for alternate sequencing.
Year 1
| Semester 1 | Units |
|---|---|
| APT A130 | Private Pilot Aviation Ground School |
| APT A133 | Aviation-Meteorology |
| Units |
| Semester 2 |
|---|
| APT A132 |
| APT A134 |
Year 2
| Semester 1 |
|---|
| APT A139 |
| Semester 2 |
|---|
| APT A145 |
| APT A150 |