According to FAA pilot-production data, the U.S. is consistently certifying a greater number of airline pilots on a monthly basis compared to pre-pandemic levels, the pilot union said.
ALPA said that while there were some initial backlogs post-COVID, the system is working and yielding a record number of pilots. [Credit: Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
The U.S. pilot supply is stable and growing, with over 11,000 pilots certified in the past year, exceeding pre-pandemic certification rates.
Industry experts and airline executives confirm that overall pilot demand has been met, leading to a surplus of first officers and reduced hiring by some carriers, contrary to claims of an ongoing shortage.
Despite a strong supply of new pilots, regional airlines are now facing a "captain shortage" as experienced captains continue to attrit from the industry.
A new release from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) notes that the U.S. pilot supply is stable with more than 11,000 pilots certified in the past 12 months.
ALPA highlighted recently released FAA pilot-production data, indicating that the U.S. is consistently certifying a greater number of airline pilots on a monthly basis compared to pre-pandemic levels.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Amelia Walsh is a private pilot who enjoys flying her family’s Columbia 350. She is based in Colorado and loves all things outdoors including skiing, hiking, and camping.
