31 October 2025

When it comes to managing your private aircraft, having the right people on board is everything. Whether you are a private owner or operator, recruiting the right flight crew, operations staff, or flight attendants can be one of the most challenging and time-consuming aspects of running a successful operation.

Many private owners rely on word of mouth or personal networks to find their people. While this approach can sometimes be effective, it often limits access to top talent and leaves critical roles unfilled for too long. At GOOSE Recruitment, we collaborate with private owners and operators worldwide to deliver tailored workforce solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Specialist expertise matters: Private aviation recruitment requires deep sector knowledge and trusted networks to identify the right talent discreetly and efficiently.

  • Confidentiality is crucial: With NDAs and discreet advertising, owners and operators can secure talent without compromising privacy or reputation.

  • Data-driven insight adds value: Access to current salary and market intelligence ensures competitive offers and stronger long-term hires.

Why Private Aviation Recruitment Is So Complex

Private and corporate aviation recruitment is unlike any other. In many cases:

  • The person tasked with hiring isn’t an aviation recruiter: Sometimes it’s a HR generalist or even a lead pilot trying to juggle flight operations alongside recruitment.

  • The requirements can be hard to define: Whether you’re looking for a Captain with military experience, or a VIP Flight Attendant with wide-body aircraft exposure, the details matter.

  • Confidentiality is key: Many private owners don’t want to advertise roles publicly.

That’s where we come in.

Bespoke Recruitment, Designed Around You

We understand that your time is precious. Our specialist aviation recruitment team handles the search, screening, and selection process end-to-end. We pre-screen candidates via video calls, review portrait and full-body photographs, and ensure only the most suitable professionals reach your shortlist.

Our service includes:

  • Headhunting for personality and cultural fit, not just qualifications

  • Market intelligence and salary consulting, especially valuable if you’re not actively recruiting and unaware of recent pay trends

  • Confidential and discreet advertising, with NDAs for both clients and candidates

  • Feedback and communication at every stage of the process

We’re not a database recruiter; every search is tailored to your specific aircraft, operation type, and owner preferences.

Building Long-Term Relationships, Not Freelance Fixes

We know that private owners value trust, discretion, and consistency. Many prefer to avoid freelance crew and instead build long-term teams who understand their expectations, aircraft, and service standards.

Our goal is to help you build a crew you can rely on, one that offers both operational safety and exceptional service.

Case Studies: Proven Experience in Private Aviation

  • Presidential Fleet Operation

A presidential client requested VIP Flight Attendants and wide-body Captains for their long-term operation. We delivered candidates with previous VIP wide-body experience who met the client’s exacting standards.

  • Part-NCC Operation with Expanding Fleet

Our client operated a large Part-NCC fleet and needed Captains and Operations Controllers for long-range aircraft. Alongside recruitment, we provided market salary intelligence, helping them adjust their offer to meet market standards and secure top talent.

  • High-Risk Operational Environment

For a client operating private aircraft into conflict zones, we conducted a specialist search and selection process to identify pilots and crew with relevant experience in high-risk regions.

  • Diversity and Crew Alignment Project

A private owner operating through a management company wanted to diversify their flight crew after facing alignment challenges. We analysed the root causes and delivered a refreshed shortlist that fully met the owner’s expectations.

Your Trusted Partner in Private Aviation Recruitment

With extensive experience across AOC or privately operated aircraft, GOOSE Recruitment is trusted by owners and operators worldwide for confidential, high-quality recruitment solutions.

Whether you need a discreet headhunt, expert market advice, or help planning your future crew structure, we’re here to support your operation with professionalism, precision, and care.

Ready to discuss your workforce needs?

Contact our specialist team at GOOSE Recruitment to learn how we can help you secure the right people for your private operation.

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