Flight dispatchers work indoors at the airport in the airline operations office. They use computers, calculators, weather charts and information, and loading re-ports. A 40-hour week with shift work is normal.

Flight dispatchers frequently work under pressure, especially when flying weather is bad. They must make many rapid decisions concerning safety, flight regulations, and the economy of operations. These employees are surrounded by people, teletype machines, telephones, and intercom systems in a noisy, busy atmosphere. Those who work for a small airline, carry on the duties of a meteorologist and schedule coordinator.