Just 18 short months ago, pilots chasing an airline job had a nearly bottomless well of opportunities to draw from. Industry experts compared the scarcity of experienced cockpit crewmembers to the 1960s—when the major airlines were so needy, they actually subsidized pilot training. As 2019 drew to a close, it was fairly common for regional airlines to pay substantial hiring bonuses for the right pilot and then add another lump sum once they’d completed training.
Should You Consider Becoming an Airline Pilot?
Key Takeaways:
- The airline industry, after an unprecedented downturn due to COVID-19 that halted pilot hiring, is now showing signs of recovery with regional airlines and freight carriers beginning to rehire.
- Despite the pandemic's immediate impact, industry experts predict a significant global pilot shortage will rapidly re-emerge by 2023-2025, driven by an aging workforce and pre-existing barriers to entry.
- Aspiring pilots are strongly advised to continue their training and not delay, as the cyclical nature of the industry and projected demand indicate a strong job market once they are qualified.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
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