Network Development and Management Diploma

5 courses to be completed in 3 years

This diploma provides the basis and practical know-how to effectively develop the skills required to achieve key commercial objectives. It comprises 3 required courses in network fleet and schedule planning, route forecasting and development, and airport slot management and coordination, as well as e-learning in aviation law fundamentals, all of which are designed to equip current and future network development and management professionals with the necessary tool-kit to make effective network decisions and contribute to the growth and profitability of their airlines. Depending on your intended specialization track, the diploma also offers an elective course in areas of airline business foundation, leading cost management strategies and aviation law for route network development.

Network design and management is one of the most critical areas of running a successful and profitable airline. It has a significant effect on almost all other areas of airline management, ranging from commercial sustainability (profitability, market share, route selection, customer proposition) to operational design (crew planning, aircraft maintenance, catering and third party services). Network development and management professionals have a special role in the organizational structure of every airline and require a wide-ranging skill-set and in-depth understanding of several commercial, regulatory and operational aspects of the aviation industry. Several leading C-suite executives in today’s airline industry have at some point in careers held positions in network development and management departments.

Upon completion of this diploma you will be able to:

• Discuss the role of network management in airline business management and growth
• Relate the various business models for network design and match demand with supply
• Evaluate impact of aircraft and schedule choice on route profitability and understand route forecasting
• Distinguish various operational and infrastructure constraints and understand slot coordination needs
• Describe bilateral agreements, route rights and other regulatory aspects influencing network design
• Implement successful network strategies and tactics to maximize profitability and market share

Key Topics

• Network strategies and optimization
• Supply and demand right-sizing
• Strategic and operational analysis
• Regulatory framework and route rights
• Operational/infrastructure constraints
• Competitor and market analysis

• Network, Fleet and Schedule Planning Personnel including slot managers
• Airline relationship management personnel from airports
• Airline procurement personnel dealing with airport agreements
• Airline FP&A personnel who deal with forecasting and capacity management

A passing mark of 70% is required on all assignments and exams. A special distinction is awarded to candidates who obtain a distinction in all, or all but one, of all course exams and assignments that make up this Diploma.

How to obtain your diploma

1. Complete all Required and selected Elective courses that make up the Diploma, within 3 years.
2. Please contact us on our Customer Portal to request your diploma, stating the title of the diploma you are applying for and the list of courses you completed for that diploma.
3. IATA Training will issue your diploma upon verification of your eligibility.