On Demand

Will the gig economy for professional pilots takeoff?

With the global pilot shortage regularly making headlines, having pilots able to urgently provide short-term services makes sense at face value. But the increase in on-demand aircrew service providers and agencies looks set to be tested by aviation regulators.

Similar to a temp agency, a contingent aircrew workforce service such as HeliSpeed, hullo Aircrew, or Freelance Aircrew acts as a digital marketplace between qualified aircrew and flight operators. The agency or service provider usually makes it clear in its terms and conditions that it acts only as an online advertising, introductio, and match-making platform between an operator and aircrew. The service contract, and all responsibilities and liabilities, remains between the operator and the aircrew directly, with no “representations, warranties, or responsibilities” for any services provided by the on-demand provider.