I Am Amir Khan

Meet Amir Khan, Director MRO Operations ad interim in Dubai, in the next chapter of #IAMJET.

Editor’s note: Since the interview, Amir has been promoted to Director MRO Operations ad interim. We revisited the conversation to reflect on what has changed.

With over 20 years’ experience at Jet Aviation, Amir knows the Dubai operation inside out. Today, as Director MRO Operations ad interim, he has broader oversight across our maintenance activities in Dubai, including the main operation at DXB and our line station at DWC. Alongside day-to-day operational responsibility, the role brings an increased focus on customers, capability development, investment decisions and ensuring the right people and resources are in place to support the business.

Watch his video and read the interview below to get to know Amir.

How long have you worked for Jet Aviation?

I completed 20 years this year.

How did you come to Jet Aviation?

I first came across Jet Aviation in early 2005. At the time, I was working for another company at the airport, and we brought an aircraft over to this side of the airfield for a high-power engine run. The Jet Aviation hangar was still under construction, with fencing up on the airside.

I remember clearly seeing the newly installed Jet Aviation signage. I had no background in business aviation at the time, but the name stayed with me. I did some research to learn more about the company and was immediately drawn to its reputation in the industry.

Not long after, I applied for a position. I officially joined Jet Aviation on June 12, 2005 — and I’ve been part of the team ever since.

Amir, please briefly describe your role for us.

As Director MRO Operations ad interim, I have overall oversight of our maintenance activities across Dubai, including our operations at DXB and DWC.

I remain closely involved in the full maintenance process, from the early quotation and planning stages through to execution and release into service. The role also brings broader responsibility for capability development, investment decisions, staffing and training, as well as ensuring we have the right people, tooling and resources in place to support our customers.

I am also now a key focal point for customers, particularly when projects become more complex or plans change.

What does a typical day for you look like?

I start each day with a walkaround of the hangar to get an overview of the situation on the floor before our morning meeting.

During the morning meeting, I sit down with the Planning team and the CSMs responsible for each project. We review progress, discuss any technical or logistical challenges, and align on the day’s priorities to ensure smooth operations.

Meetings are a regular part of my routine — whether with Customers, OEMs, Suppliers, or internal stakeholders. I also work closely with the Quality department, addressing audit findings, implementing corrective actions, and driving continuous improvement across the operation.

In my new role, I am spending more time across both sites and more time directly with customers, while also looking further ahead at capability, resources and the needs of the team.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

“I enjoy that I’m constantly learning. Aviation is an ever-evolving industry, with new aircraft types introduced every few years. Being exposed to new technologies, systems, and challenges keeps the job exciting and rewarding.”

I enjoy that I’m constantly learning. Aviation is an ever-evolving industry, with new aircraft types introduced every few years. Being exposed to new technologies, systems, and challenges keeps the job exciting and rewarding.

And what do you enjoy about working for Jet Aviation?

After 20 years with Jet Aviation, one of the main reasons I’ve stayed is the people. We have a truly diverse and collaborative team. We motivate each other and solve new challenges every day — whether technical, operational, or customer-related.

What are the main challenges you face in your role? 

With more aircraft operating into the region, managing AOGs, drop-ins, and unscheduled maintenance events while keeping scheduled projects on track is a daily balancing act.

The new role adds another dimension. I now have oversight across both DXB and DWC, and during busy periods we need to move people and resources between the two locations to meet demand. 

At the same time, I am looking further ahead at recruitment, developing the next generation of talent and ensuring we continue to have the right capabilities in place.

Customers remain at the center of all of this. They are time- and cost-sensitive, so we need to make good decisions quickly and work as efficiently as possible — without ever compromising safety or quality.

If you would have to pick one word to describe how you approach your role, which one would it be?

Helpful – we work as a team, helping each other overcome challenges.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself outside of work.

Outside of work, much of my time revolves around my children’s schedules. I enjoy playing tennis with my daughters — it’s a great way for us to bond while staying active. When the weather is pleasant, my family and I also love spending time at the beach. It’s a great way to unwind.

And can you give five words that describe you in your role?

― Approachable. 
I listen to everyone, regardless of role. A diverse team brings diverse ideas.
― Assertive. 
I make confident decisions to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard.
― Detail-oriented. 
I pay close attention to the details that matter, especially when it comes to safety, compliance, and quality.
― Friendly. 
I maintain a positive, respectful attitude that helps build strong working relationships.
― Curious. 
I’m always eager to learn, adapt, and stay open to ideas and suggestions from the team.