Boeing: 2 Million Aviation Workers Needed by 2035
Joe Cortez July 27, 2016
Airplane manufacturer’s 20-year projection calls for influx of pilots in Asia and Europe.
Aircraft manufacturer Boeing predicts the world will need over two million more aviation employees in the next 20 years to keep up with consumer demand for commercial aviation. In their 2016 long-term market projection, the Chicago-based aviation giant called for an “extraordinary demand” on pilots and ground crews to support their aircraft.
The projection calls for the training of 617,000 pilots, with the most growth expected in the Asia Pacific and European regions. The long-term outlook projects 248,000 pilots will be needed in the Asia Pacific, while 112,000 will be required in Europe. North America had the third-largest demand, with the projection calling for 104,000 pilots. The manufacturer cites the overall growth of the aviation industry, especially in emerging markets, for the increase in pilot demand.
“Although Asia Pacific remains the region with the highest overall demand, there has been a significant increase in the expected number of skilled resources required in other parts of the world,” the projection reads. “New market opportunities, such as the opening of Cuba for the North American market and increased intra-Europe travel for the European market, have strengthened demand.”
In addition to the demand for new pilots, Boeing also predicts more mechanics and cabin crew members will be required to support the commercial aircraft. Although modern aircraft are safer and require fewer maintenance stops, the report cites increased regulations and global fleet growth for the demand for more manpower. While 679,000 maintenance technicians will be required globally, Boeing predicts that over 800,000 cabin crew members will be needed between now and 2035.
“Meeting this demand will require innovative solutions — focused on educational outreach and career pipeline programs — to inspire the next generation of pilots, technicians, and cabin crew,” the report predicts. “The growing diversity of aviation personnel will also require instructors to have cross-cultural and cross-generational skills to engage tomorrow’s workforce.”
[Photo: Boeing]
Someone pay for my training and I will do it. But I'm not going to pay £100K to obtain a FATPL with no certainty of work. This is why I have got to 40 without every achieving my dream. The industry has destroyed a generation of future pilots.
It sounds as though Boeing, or someone, is going to have to find a way to go into the pilot-training business, and find a way to reduce the costs a LOT.