Network Operations Control (NOC) is the hub of the SWISS flight operations, and the place where all the various strands that ensure the smooth and effective deployment of the SWISS aircraft fleet come together. As a duty manager in the NOC team, Angela monitors and manages the flight operations as they happen, all with the paramount aim of keeping as closely as possible to the published schedules.

It’s not always easy. If a single element in this complex system doesn’t function as it should, the repercussions can ripple their way through the entire flight operations. And in the summer months, there can be many obstacles to overcome: thunderstorms or other adverse weather, congested airways, strikes, personnel shortages or technical problems can easily give rise to an irregularity that may well result in delays.

That’s where Angela comes in, with prompt decisions, pragmatism and sometimes a lot of creativity, too – especially when multiple factors all start playing their part. She’ll work with her colleagues in Crew Control, Hub Control, the Passenger Care Center, Flight Dispatch, Technics and Cargo to find the best possible solutions to get the SWISS flight operations back on track. This may also involve the odd tough decision, too, such as cancelling a flight.

Watch the video if you’d like to see how Angela’s recent afternoon NOC shift went and what challenges she was confronted with in the course of it.