TURBULENT SKIES

Navigating Pilot Shortage in Commercial and Business Aviation will require a collaborative approach by all stakeholders

- ROHIT GOEL

IN THE EVER-EVOLVING LANDSCAPE OF COMMERCIAL AND business aviation, the pilot shortage remains a critical challenge demanding strategic and collaborative solutions. As the industry strives to meet the escalating demands of a growing global population, finding a delicate balance between safety, efficiency, and workforce sustainability becomes paramount. By addressing the root causes of the shortage and implementing comprehensive solutions, the aviation industry can navigate these turbulent skies and secure a prosperous future for both seasoned aviators and those aspiring to soar to new heights.

WHY THE SHORTAGE?

The pilot shortage remains a critical challenge for the aviation industry, driven by factors such as an aging pilot workforce, surging demand for air travel, costly training, and a shortage of qualified instructors. With the average age of pilots surpassing 50, imminent retirements will exacerbate the deficit of skilled pilots. The escalating demand for air travel, projected to increase by 5 per cent annually over the next decade, further underscores the urgency of addressing this shortage. However, the escalating costs of pilot training act as a significant deterrent for aspiring aviators. In addition, the shortage of proficient flight instructors creates a bottleneck in the training pipeline, resulting in delays for new pilots to commence their careers. Some of the key factors that typically influence the requirement of Pilots in Commercial and Business Aviation are: