Featured Crew

In honor of National Airline Dispatch Day 2025, we’re highlighting two of our outstanding aircraft dispatchers, Jacob Fernandez (pictured, right) and Benjamin Gerhardt (pictured, left) who also serves as a dispatch trainer. Their backgrounds, career paths, and insights into the world of dispatching give us a deeper appreciation for the critical role they play in our daily operations.

How did you find your way into aviation dispatch?

Jacob discovered dispatching during an aviation class in college. “It stuck in my mind, but I didn’t pursue it until after I graduated,” he says. Before joining aviation professionally, Jacob worked at ice rinks — and yes, he knows how to drive a Zamboni!

Benjamin ran a Snap-On Tools franchise before making a career change. “My dad worked in maintenance at Delta and suggested dispatching,” he recalls. Thanks to his dad’s connections, Benjamin was able to visit Delta’s operations center and get a firsthand look at the dispatcher’s world. “That’s what sealed the deal.”

What does it take to become a dispatcher?

Jacob explains the path: “You need to pass the ADX written exam (a general aviation knowledge test a dispatcher must pass prior to receiving his/her license), attend a certified dispatch school, and then pass an FAA oral exam.” Once certified, the license is good for life, and no medical certificate required, making it a valuable backup for pilots or air traffic controllers.

Benjamin points out that CommuteAir offers a Pathway Program for current employees. “CommuteAir covers the cost of the ADX test and dispatch school, and in return, employees commit to working here for two years. It’s a great way to grow your aviation career.”

What’s it like being a dispatcher at CommuteAir?

Jacob appreciates the camaraderie and collaboration. “Dispatchers and captains share authority over a flight, so there’s room for individual decision-making, but we also work closely together. If weather changes or an aircraft diverts, we’ve got each other’s backs.”

Benjamin agrees: “We’re a close-knit group, and everyone is willing to help. Thad, our Chief Dispatcher, has an open-door policy, and we are all always available to answer questions.”

What are the biggest challenges?

Jacob points to the physical distance between dispatchers and flight crews. “We’re in Westlake, Ohio and they’re on the flight deck. Bridging that gap in communication and perspective takes effort. We have to adapt to each crew’s needs, and no two situations are the same.”

Benjamin adds that weather and ATC routing can get tricky. “You’re pre-planning flights while monitoring others already in the air, all while answering messages and calls. It’s a fast-paced environment.”

Why is the dispatcher role so critical?

Jacob: “We’re responsible for the flight plan, route, fuel, and weather assessments. We’re the flight crew’s eyes on the big picture, from the ground.”

Benjamin: “We share operational control with the captain, meaning we have equal responsibility for the flight. It’s a big role with a big impact.”

Who makes a great dispatcher?

Jacob says the best dispatchers are proactive, attentive, and love solving problems. “If you enjoy planning trips or playing strategy games, you’d probably enjoy dispatching.”

Benjamin emphasizes multitasking and a willingness to learn: “You don’t have to know everything coming in — we’ll train you.”

What does the future of dispatching look like?

Jacob: “The job outlook is strong. As major airlines continue to grow, they need more dispatchers, which opens up room at the regional level too.”

Benjamin: “There aren’t many licensed dispatchers in the U.S., so opportunities are out there for anyone ready to pursue them.”

What’s next for you?

Jacob hopes to dispatch for a major airline one day, possibly on international routes. “I’m excited by the challenge of wider regions and more complex operations.”

Benjamin is happy where he is now. “Eventually I’d like to move up, but for now I enjoy being one of the trainers here and helping new dispatchers get started.”

Final thoughts?

Jacob: “Dispatching has taught me a lot about working closely with people. I’ve really grown to enjoy the teamwork involved, especially when we’re solving problems together.”

Benjamin: “Every day is different. That’s the beauty of it — you never know what challenges you’ll face, but it keeps the job exciting.”