300,000

New pilots needed by 2034

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Be ready for takeoff

There is a promising future ahead for aspiring pilots in both business and commercial aviation. With the aviation industry experiencing robust growth, CAE forecasts that the demand for pilots will soar, with 300,000 new pilots needed over the next decade.

In commercial aviation, 267,000 new commercial aviation pilots will be needed globally over the next 10 years to meet the growing demand, especially in Asia-Pacific. In business aviation, 33,000 new business aviation pilots will be needed primarily to replace retiring pilots and keep the sector on its growth trajectory.

As the industry readies and mobilizes to train and equip the next generation of pilots, there has never been a better time to embark on a career in aviation.

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Pilot demand by region

Commercial aviation
Business aviation
33K 44K
2025 2034
Commercial Aircraft In Service
CAGR:3.25%
(Source: Aviation Week)
23K 27K
2025 2034
Business Aircraft In Service
CAGR:1.80%
(Source: Aviation Week)

Key insights

35% of all pilots will retire or leave the flight deck in the next 10 years (Source: CAE)

of all pilots will retire or leave the flight deck in the next 10 years
(Source: CAE)

53% of airline pilots in the U.S. are over 50 years old (Source: FAA U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics)

53%
of airline pilots in the U.S. are over 50 years old
(Source: FAA U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics)

11% of the 849,000 FAA registered pilots of all categories are women (Source: FAA U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics))

of the 849,000 FAA registered pilots of all categories are women
(Source: FAA U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics))

Hear from those whose careers took flight

Nicola NiRiada
Air Traffic Controller, AirNav Ireland
An amazing, dynamic sector with so much opportunity
"I always wanted to join the aviation sector, inspired by my dad who was a controller. It's the best job in the world, connecting people and places while keeping the public safe. Every day is different, and you work with the best people. Safety is the top priority, and having enough staff is crucial for managing fatigue and well-being. The sector is growing, and we need to keep up with the demand. My advice: Go for it! It's an amazing, dynamic sector with plenty of opportunities."
Carl Zoch, Pilot
Lear 60/60XR Instructor/SFE/TCE, CAE
Follow your passion and the rewards will follow
"In my 33-year career I have never seen a demand for pilots and aircrews as high as I have today. I would encourage candidates to consider all options of flying, from airline to corporate, firefighting to medevac, commercial to private. As the old saying goes, follow your passion and the rewards will follow. And the office view isn’t bad either!"
Zoe McCurry, Cabin Crew
General Manager – Cadet Support Europe, CAE
A journey of personal and professional growth
"Being a cabin crew member is an incredibly rewarding role and more than just a job; it’s a journey of personal and professional growth. The skills and experiences I’ve gained have been invaluable, providing me with the foundations to build my aviation career."
Andrew Vaisar, Maintenance Technician
Leader
Maintenance Training Operations, CAE
Embrace the unknown and let your experiences guide you
"Passion for aviation has been my driving force in this field. The evolution of aircraft over a century is truly remarkable. Starting with a desire to explore the world, my 20-year journey in aviation has brought me invaluable experiences, challenges, rewards, and enduring relationships. In pursuing opportunities, remember that the best ones may not always be obvious. Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unique experiences that propel your career forward."
Raquel Mora, Cabin Crew
Group Leader, Cabin Training, CAE
My temporary job became my passion
"I started my career as a cabin crew by chance, seeking a temporary summer job while in university. What began as a 6-month stint turned into a 25-year passion and lifestyle. This role has allowed me to develop skills like empathy and resilience, experience diverse cultures, and work in dynamic environments."
Andrew Barnett
Product Marketing Manager, CAE
Keep an open mind and enjoy the journey
"I was fortunate enough to obtain my private pilot license in high school and continue flight training throughout university. My passion for aviation has led to an amazing career from planning and designing airports to marketing complex aerospace products globally. I encourage anyone with an interest and curiosity in aviation to simply start, keep an open mind, learn as much as you can and enjoy the journey."

400 New hires needed each day to meet worldwide aviation personnel demand by 2034

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New hires needed each day to meet worldwide aviation personnel demand by 2034
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