Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. We have been flying real missions with real customers since 2017.
Our V2 carries 30 lbs up to 500 miles and our V3 carries 100 lbs over 1,000 miles with 20+ hours of endurance. Both use a dual-hybrid design that takes off like a helicopter and cruises like a plane. We are currently flying on three continents, in controlled national airspace under FAA oversight, and in support of U.S. military operations.
Backed by Y Combinator and a $37M STRATFI contract from the U.S. Air Force, we are moving from prototype to full-rate production with a path to Program of Record. Based in Austin, we are scaling fast and hiring people who want to build the world's largest fleet of autonomous logistics aircraft.
The Opportunity
Skyways is growing, and we're looking for a Head of Flight. This is a critical leadership role that will define, lead, and scale all flight operations and flight testing. You'll ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and operational standards for both internal and customer flights, providing strategic oversight as we prepare for global scale.
What You'll Do:
Provide strategic and operational oversight for all flight activities.
Serve as the primary liaison between Skyways, our customers, regulatory bodies, and military stakeholders.
Coordinate across Skyways teams to align on all flight-related initiatives.
Lead, mentor, and develop the flight team.
Oversee test scheduling, aircraft planning, and personnel management.
Gain deep knowledge of Skyways aircraft to inform flight ops.
What You'll Bring:
Significant experience (10+ years implied) leading flight operations and/or flight testing in an aviation environment.
Deep understanding of aviation principles and flight dynamics, demonstrated through relevant experience and/or certifications.
Proven experience engaging with and navigating aviation regulatory bodies.
Demonstrated ability to build, mentor, and manage high-performing teams.
Strong, independent problem-solving capabilities.
A genuine passion for hands-on work and continuous learning within the aviation field.
Bonus Points If You've:
Held high-level management positions at cutting-edge aviation companies.
Experience in the space, airlines, or automotive industries, especially leading complex engineering teams.
A background as a military pilot transitioning to the private sector.
Experience with organizations like United Airlines (organizational emphasis) or those leading flight at advanced composite manufacturers.
Benefits at Skyways:
Health coverage: medical, dental, and vision insurance
Time to recharge: paid time off and holidays
Planning ahead: 401(k) retirement savings
Peace of mind: life insurance coverage
Shared success: stock options for every employee
Extra perks to make the workday easier and more enjoyable
Want to join our mission? Apply to learn more!
Due to U.S. government contract requirements, this role is limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or candidates from specific countries authorized under applicable export control regulations.
Skyways is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.
