Life @ Delta: Behind the Scenes in Flight Ops

When people think of Delta Air Lines, they often picture the red triangle, the polished uniforms, and the iconic boarding music. But few know what life is like behind the scenes—especially in Flight Operations Regulatory Compliance.

As a two-time Co-Op in Delta’s Flight Ops department, I had the chance to dive deep into what keeps the airline flying smoothly and legally. From day one, I wasn’t just an intern making coffee or printing papers—I was contributing to real processes that directly impacted pilot operations and FAA compliance.

This role taught me the importance of attention to detail, procedural integrity, and cross-department collaboration. Whether it was updating manuals, attending audit meetings, or tracking federal regulatory changes, I gained a solid understanding of what it really takes to keep thousands of flights running daily—and safely.

But it wasn’t all desk work.

One of the most unforgettable parts of my co-op experience was the ability to jumpseat across the country—and beyond. I took advantage of every opportunity, exploring new places from New York to Costa Rica. Watching the sunrise from a flight deck or listening to pilot briefings 35,000 feet in the air gave me a whole new appreciation for the aviation world I’m building my career in.

Although my exact co-op position isn’t currently open, I always encourage students and early-career professionals to explore Delta’s wide range of internship and co-op opportunities. Each one is a stepping stone into the heart of the aviation industry.

Explore Delta internships and co-ops here:

https://delta.avature.net/en_US/careers/JobDetail/Intern-Aviation-Management-Flight-Operations-Fall-2025/27711?jobId=27711

Working at Delta was more than a job—it was an experience that reshaped my view of aviation, professionalism, and my own potential. If you’re passionate about flying, operations, or anything in between, Delta is the place to learn, grow, and soar.