Boeing Predicts High Demand for Aviation Personnel in Next Two Decades
Boeing, a prominent aerospace company, has released its 2023 Pilot and Technician Outlook (PTO), forecasting a robust demand for aviation professionals in the next 20 years. With the global commercial airplane fleet expected to double by 2042, the industry is estimated to require 2.3 million new aviation personnel to support the growing commercial fleet and accommodate the increasing air travel demands.
The PTO highlights the following projections for commercial carriers through 2042:
649,000 pilots
690,000 maintenance technicians
938,000 cabin crew members
The recovery of domestic air travel and a surge in international traffic have contributed to the escalating demand for aviation personnel. Chris Broom, Vice President of Commercial Training Solutions at Boeing Global Services, emphasizes that competency-based training and assessment offerings will ensure high-quality training for current and future aviation professionals, contributing to aviation safety through immersive and virtual training solutions.
Boeing’s forecast reveals that China, Eurasia, and North America will drive over half of the demand for new aviation personnel, with China surpassing North America in requirements. Additionally, the regions with the fastest-growing personnel demands are Africa, Southeast Asia, and South Asia, where regional demands are expected to nearly double.
Boeing’s comprehensive forecast includes estimates for new pilots, technicians, and cabin crew in various regions:
Region New Pilots New Technicians New Cabin Crew
Global 649,000 690,000 938,000
Africa 21,000 22,000 26,000
China 134,000 138,000 161,000
Eurasia 143,000 156,000 235,000
Latin America 38,000 41,000 49,000
Middle East 58,000 58,000 99,000
North America 127,000 125,000 177,000
Northeast Asia 23,000 28,000 39,000
Oceania 10,000 11,000 18,000
South Asia 37,000 38,000 45,000
Southeast Asia 58,000 73,000 89,000
As Boeing remains a leading global aerospace company, its diverse team is dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and upholding core values of safety, quality, and integrity. The company is committed to advancing economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact, leveraging a global supplier base and contributing to a purpose-driven future. To join the team and explore career opportunities, visit boeing.com/careers.