Nyasa Express is seeking an experienced and operationally focused Chief Pilot to lead flight crew standards, training, competency and day-to-day pilot management.
Nyasa Express currently operates Cessna 210s aircraft and the Cessna 208 Caravan in support of charter and tourism operations across Malawi and the surrounding region.
Job Summary
- Employer: Fly Nyasa
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Aviation
- Closing Date: 2026-10-12
Key Responsibilities
- Maintaining professional and operational standards across the flight crew.
- Ensuring flight crew licensing, medical, training, checking and currency requirements are maintained.
- Coordinating initial, recurrent, upgrade and route training.
- Supervising crew scheduling, discipline, performance and welfare.
- Maintaining standardisation of flight operations, instructional techniques and aircraft procedures.
- Ensuring compliance with the Operations Manual, Standard Operating Procedures and applicable Malawi Civil Aviation Regulations.
- Supporting safe, efficient and commercially practical flight operations.
- Advising management on operational risks, crew requirements and opportunities to improve safety and efficiency.
- Ensuring aircraft SOPs and flight crew training records remain current and properly controlled.
Requirements
- Minimum 1,500 hours total flight time .
- Valid CPL or ATPL .
- Valid instrument rating, with at least 50 hours of instrument flight experience .
- Current Cessna 208 rating , with a minimum of 500 hours on type .
- Cessna 210 experience, or substantial experience on a comparable high-performance retractable aircraft.
- Previous experience as a Training Captain, Check Airman or Flight Instructor .
- Eligibility to obtain a Malawi licence or foreign licence validation and to be accepted by the Malawi Civil Aviation Authority for the position.
- Valid Class 1 medical certificate .
- Strong working knowledge of operational regulations, flight crew training, checking, currency and record-keeping requirements.
How to Apply
Apply by email: Themba@flynyasa.net
About the Company
Nyasa Express Limited, trading as FlyNyasa, is a Malawian charter airline that offers both seat rate and charter commercial air services from their base at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, Malawi. The company began operations in 2011 under the name Ulendo Airlink and rebranded in February 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are required to become a Chief Pilot in Malawi?
You need a valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) issued by the Malawi Department of Civil Aviation or a recognized ICAO state. Most employers require at least 4,000–6,000 total flight hours with significant command experience on turbine aircraft. A degree in aviation management or related field is often preferred but not always mandatory.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Pilot at a Malawian airline?
You oversee flight operations, ensure regulatory compliance with the Malawi Civil Aviation Authority, and manage pilot scheduling and training programs. You also conduct safety audits, investigate incidents, and serve as the primary liaison between flight crew and airline management. Regular duties include reviewing flight logs, approving route plans, and maintaining operational manuals.
How does the local work culture in Malawi's aviation sector affect the Chief Pilot role?
Malawian aviation workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy and formal communication channels, so building strong relationships with regulators and airline executives is essential. Punctuality and reliability are highly valued given the country's developing infrastructure and occasional logistical challenges. You should expect to mentor younger pilots, as seniority carries significant responsibility for professional development.
What career progression opportunities exist for Chief Pilots in Malawi?
Experienced Chief Pilots can advance to Director of Operations or Managing Director positions within airlines. Some transition into regulatory roles with the Malawi Civil Aviation Authority or consulting positions supporting regional aviation development. International opportunities with larger African carriers or global aviation organizations become accessible with proven leadership experience.
What benefits are typically offered to Chief Pilots by Malawian employers?
Benefits usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions through NICO or other local providers, and annual leave of 20–30 days depending on the employer. Some airlines offer housing allowances, transport benefits, or education support for dependents. Specific packages vary significantly between established carriers and newer operators.
How should I apply for a Chief Pilot position in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize?
Submit applications directly to airline headquarters or through aviation recruitment platforms serving Southern Africa, ensuring your CV highlights leadership experience and Malawian regulatory familiarity. Employers prioritize candidates with prior Chief Pilot or management experience, strong safety records, and demonstrated ability to work within resource-constrained environments. Networking through the Malawi Airlines Pilots Association and attending regional aviation conferences can significantly improve your visibility.