An annual business aviation survey by jobs specialist JSfirm indicates that most business aviation companies are feeling the effects of a pilot shortage while at the same time logging more flight hours than in 2017.
The Texas-based aviation job website surveyed 279 business aviation personnel about the number of employees and aircraft, the type of aircraft in use, and under which part of the federal aviation regulations they operate—Part 91, Part 135, or both.
“There has never been a better time to join the aviation industry,” said Jeff Richards, the operations manager for JSfirm.
He noted an increase in flight hours of 12 percent compared to 2017 and said that more than 26 percent of those surveyed said the pilot shortage was affecting their operations. Richards added that “the pilot hiring demand will continue to trend upwards for years to come.”
Nearly two-thirds of the respondents said they flew heavy, medium, or light jets. The remainder flew turboprops (19.42 percent) or helicopters (13.65 percent).
JSfirm.com is an AOPA partner.