Boeing trims pilot demand forecast slightly

The company's long-running Pilot and Technician Outlook was released July 22 during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin, and predicts 660,000 new pilots will be needed worldwide through 2044, down 2.1 percent from the 674,000 called for in the 2024 edition of the forecast.

Demand for maintenance professionals over the coming two decades also slipped slightly, from 716,000 in the 2024 edition to 710,000 in the new outlook, while demand for cabin crew made up the difference in the overall numbers, rising from 980,000 to 1 million. Boeing noted that two-thirds of the total number will be needed to replace existing personnel, and one-third will support commercial fleet growth.

Most of the new jobs will operate single-aisle aircraft, and demand for staff in South Asia and Southeast Asia is expected to increase more than threefold.

“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, Commercial Training Solutions, 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.”