Tug Driver |FlySafair – Johannesburg (Permanent)

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Tug Driver Job Vacancy at FlySafair – Johannesburg (Permanent)

FlySafair is inviting experienced aviation professionals to apply for a Permanent Tug Driver position based at its Head Office in Bonaero Park, Johannesburg. This role is ideal for candidates with extensive aircraft towing and airside operations experience who are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, precision, and operational efficiency.

Job Overview

Position: Tug Driver
Company: FlySafair
Location: Bonaero Park, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Department: SVM & Flight Line
Employment Type: Permanent
Reference Number: TUGD_SVM/FL1
Salary: Market Related
Closing Date: 28 July 2026

About the Role

As a Tug Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe movement of aircraft on the ground. You will conduct aircraft pushbacks, towing operations, and reposition aircraft for departures, arrivals, maintenance, and operational requirements. Working in one of the busiest airport environments requires exceptional concentration, communication, and strict adherence to aviation safety regulations.

This position forms part of FlySafair’s Ground Operations team, contributing directly to safe and efficient flight operations while minimizing delays and maintaining world-class service standards.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely perform aircraft pushback and towing operations in accordance with approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Position aircraft accurately at gates, maintenance bays, and designated parking areas.
  • Maintain continuous communication with pilots, marshallers, dispatchers, and ground personnel during aircraft movements.
  • Use approved headset communication systems, hand signals, and emergency procedures.
  • Conduct daily inspections of aircraft tugs, tow bars, and other ground support equipment before use.
  • Immediately report equipment faults or operational hazards.
  • Ensure compliance with SACAA regulations, airport authority requirements, and FlySafair safety standards.
  • Identify and report hazards, incidents, accidents, or near misses through the Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Operate aircraft towing vehicles and other ground support equipment responsibly to prevent damage to aircraft and airport infrastructure.
  • Complete equipment inspection reports, operational logs, and incident documentation accurately.
  • Maintain the cleanliness and basic maintenance of assigned vehicles.
  • Assist with aircraft repositioning for maintenance, engineering, training, and operational purposes.
  • Support ramp operations during busy flight schedules and irregular operations.
  • Work closely with baggage handling, engineering, dispatch, and flight operations teams to ensure efficient aircraft turnaround times.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must have:

  • Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in airside, ramp, or aircraft ground handling operations.
  • Practical experience with aircraft towing and pushback procedures.
  • Experience working in airport apron and aircraft movement areas.
  • Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
  • Valid AAFSA Tug Licence.
  • Previous ASCA Permit.
  • Willingness to work rotating shifts, weekends, overtime, and public holidays.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Good hand-eye coordination.

Technical Knowledge

Successful candidates should demonstrate knowledge of:

  • Aircraft pushback procedures.
  • Aircraft towing techniques.
  • Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
  • Aircraft weight and balance principles.
  • Airport airside regulations.
  • Apron safety procedures.
  • Aircraft marshalling procedures.
  • Aviation emergency response procedures.
  • Airside speed limits and restricted operating areas.
  • Flight line safety requirements.

Skills and Competencies

  • Strong safety awareness.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Teamwork and collaboration.
  • Time management.
  • Problem-solving ability.
  • Decision-making under pressure.
  • Situational awareness.
  • High level of concentration.
  • Ability to follow strict operational procedures.
  • Professional customer service when interacting with flight crews.

Personal Attributes

FlySafair is looking for candidates who are:

  • Professional and respectful.
  • Honest and trustworthy.
  • Highly dependable.
  • Punctual.
  • Safety-focused.
  • Flexible and adaptable.
  • Accountable for their work.
  • Able to work independently and within a team.
  • Committed to operational excellence.

Why Join FlySafair?

FlySafair is one of South Africa’s leading low-cost airlines, known for operational excellence, reliability, and outstanding customer service. Employees enjoy working in a fast-paced aviation environment where safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement are highly valued. This role offers an opportunity to work alongside experienced aviation professionals while contributing to the safe operation of one of the country’s busiest airline fleets.

Application Information

  • Applications submitted via email will not be accepted.
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
  • Preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates from under-represented designated groups in line with employment equity objectives.
  • If you have not received feedback within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
  • FlySafair reserves the right not to fill the advertised position if operational requirements change.

Closing Date: 28 July 2026

Apply Here