Boeing is projecting a demand of nearly 2.4 million new commercial aviation jobs through 2044.
According to the company’s annual 2025 Pilot and Technician Outlook published on Tuesday, carriers will need to hire 660,000 pilots, 710,000 maintenance technicians, and 1 million cabin crew to meet a continued demand in personnel.
Demand for aviation professionals continues as the North American aviation industry faces a projected aircraft maintenance technician shortage through 2028.
“As commercial air traffic demand continues to outpace economic growth and the global fleet expands to meet demand, our industry will keep the fleet flying safely and efficiently by supporting workforce development for carriers worldwide,” said Chris Broom, vice president of commercial training solutions for Boeing Global Services, in a news release. “The industry is investing in technologies, including mixed reality—an immersive blend of physical and digital environments that enhances hands-on learning and situational awareness. Boeing is supporting customers with digitally advanced aviation training products and services to meet their needs. The bedrock of our approach remains competency-based training and assessment methodology to ensure high quality aviation training.”
Boeing projects that two-thirds of new personnel will address replacement through 2044 due to attrition. The report stated that demand for new personnel is mainly being driven by single-aisle airplanes.
Eurasia, China, and North America continue to drive demand for more than half of new commercial aviation industry personnel. Meanwhile, staffing is expected to triple in South Asia and Southeast Asia—the fastest-growing regions for personnel.
In North America, Boeing projects a need for 119,000 new pilots, 123,000 new technicians, and 193,000 new cabin crew over the next 20 years. China is projected to need 124,000 new pilots, 131,000 new technicians, and 171,000 new cabin crew.
Eurasia will see the largest need for new personnel with a demand for 550,000 new personnel through 2044. This includes 149,000 new pilots, 165,000 new technicians, and 236,000 new cabin crew.
