Pilot Crisis Takes Off

If recent media reports are anything to go by, Australia is in the grip of a pilot shortage. Airlines, regional and GA operators have been finding that the market for pilots has shifted enormously since there was an oversupply in 2001 after the collapse of Ansett.

The problem has been driven largely by a buoyant economy, which has increased the demand for air travel for both business and leisure, and heavy recruiting of Australian pilots by fast growing international airlines such as Emirates. Then there is the strong demand from overseas students seeking to train in Australia for the large Chinese and Indian markets, which is putting pressure on instructor numbers. The situation is now at a point where there is likely to be a severe pilot shortage in the near to medium term.