Air Transport Management MSc at Coventry University

In today’s globalised world, we have come to rely heavily on civil aviation – not only for international tourism, but also to keep the supply chains of many industry sectors running smoothly. For perishable commodities, such as fresh food or cut flowers, there is no alternative.
This dynamic course, which capitalises on our extensive links with airlines, aircraft manufacturers and airports in the UK, Ireland and overseas, provides an advanced study of air transport organisations globally, their management and the changing external environment in which they operate. Ideal for those seeking leadership positions in all areas of the airline, airport and the wider air transport industry, from planning and marketing, to logistics, operations and scheduling, this course can set you on the path to achieving Membership of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). 

Coventry University has an established reputation within the air transport and aerospace industry and a key advantage is the many opportunities for professional interaction through a programme of industry site visits, visiting guest lecturers and possibilities for participation on client-based group and individual project work.  

Why Coventry University?

An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.

Course information

The programme aims to foster an analytical understanding of the holistic nature of aviation management, together with a comprehensive knowledge of the functional nature of the business of air transportation, including the objectives, physical and human requirements needed to facilitate high quality and seamless transportation of people, products and services throughout the world.

Referring to current developments in international and national aviation businesses, we can teach you to systematically and creatively evaluate all aspects of air transport management (ATM) to improve business and management practice. 

The subject range is vast and diverse incorporating, for example, aspects of marketing and product development, such as how to create an effective brand and inflight experience for a modern airline or how to influence consumer choices, as well as how human factors impact safety culture. Particular attention is given to the tools and techniques used to establish the best combination of people and technology, including project management, logistics, production management and many more practices promoted by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

Career prospects

Air transport is one of the world’s growth industries and is projected to continue to experience ongoing growth until at least 2050. This growth brings significant challenges in recruitment of suitable personnel at all levels including management.

After the United States, the UK has the second largest aerospace industry in the world, employing around 230,000 people in over 3,000 companies, including BAE Systems, GKN and Rolls-Royce, and a range of international companies with operations in the UK, such as Airbus, Cobham, Agusta-Westland, Finmeccanica, Thales, Boeing and Bombardier. There are opportunities nationally and globally with aerospace companies, airlines, airports and third party service providers including handling agents and tour operators. 

This programme is designed to develop the strategic managerial skills necessary to meet the challenges currently facing the air transport industry today. You will also develop a wide range of transferrable professional skills during your studies, including the ability to produce written reports and deliver oral presentations, engage in self-directed study, operate as part of a team, demonstrate a critical awareness of professional, legal, social and ethical issues. As such, it will equip you with the skills and expertise required to pursue a successful career in various sectors of the air transport industry, such as airlines, air navigation service providers, airport companies and authorities, civil aviation departments, air transport consultancies and aerospace companies.

When you are ready to find permanent employment, you will also receive support from our award-winning Faculty careers service, EEC Futures, which won the ‘Best Placement Service in the UK’ award at the National Undergraduate Employability Awards in 2015 and 2016.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The University’s Careers and Employability team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Previous graduates have obtained jobs as revenue managers for a UK airline, analysts at UK CAA International, consultants with a number of industry recognise firms and in various management roles at airlines and airports in the UK and around the world.