TOBT (Target Off-Block Time)
TOBT, or Target Off-Block Time, is a crucial planning tool used at airports to manage flight departures efficiently. It's the time when an aircraft is expected to be ready - with all doors closed, boarding bridge removed, and ready to move. Think of it like a scheduled departure time, but more precise and used by airport staff to coordinate ground operations. This is part of a larger system called Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) that helps airports, airlines, and ground handlers work together smoothly. When you see TOBT mentioned in a resume, it usually means the person has experience with airport departure management and coordination.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily TOBT updates for 200+ flights at major international airport
Reduced departure delays by 30% through effective TOBT coordination between airlines and ground handlers
Implemented new Target Off-Block Time monitoring system for improved punctuality
Typical job title: "Airport Operations Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Airport Operations Coordinators
Professional Aviation Networks
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle multiple TOBT updates during peak hours?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain their experience in prioritizing flights, coordinating with multiple stakeholders (airlines, ground handlers, ATC), and making quick decisions to minimize disruptions to the overall airport operation.
Q: How have you improved TOBT accuracy at your previous airport?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in analyzing departure data, implementing improvement processes, and working with airlines and ground handlers to enhance time prediction accuracy.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors can affect TOBT calculations?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention factors like passenger boarding status, baggage loading, fueling operations, catering, crew availability, and weather conditions.
Q: Explain how TOBT relates to other airport timing milestones.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how TOBT fits with actual departure time, taxi time, and other operational timings in simple terms.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is TOBT and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that TOBT is the target time for aircraft readiness and how it helps coordinate airport operations and reduce delays.
Q: How would you communicate TOBT updates to different airport stakeholders?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic communication channels and the importance of keeping all parties informed of timing changes.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of airport operations
- Monitoring of TOBT updates
- Use of airport operational systems
- Basic stakeholder communication
Mid (2-5 years)
- TOBT calculation and adjustment
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders
- Departure sequence management
- Problem-solving during disruptions
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic departure planning
- Performance improvement implementation
- Team leadership in operations
- Crisis management during irregular operations
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic airport operations
- Lack of experience with coordination between different airport stakeholders
- Poor communication skills
- No knowledge of A-CDM principles
- Unable to explain how TOBT affects airport efficiency
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