Boeing forecasts 20-year global demand for nearly 2.4 million new commercial pilots, technicians, cabin crew

Boeing forecasts 20-year global demand for nearly 2.4 million new commercial pilots, technicians, cabin crew

Boeing has released its 20-year global demand forecast for aviation professionals, projecting a significant need for nearly 2.4 million new pilots, technicians, and cabin crew members by 2044. The forecast, presented at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, underscores the continuous growth in global air traffic and the aging workforce, driving the demand for new aviation personnel.

According to Boeing, the commercial aviation industry will require approximately 660,000 new pilots, 710,000 maintenance technicians, and 1 million cabin crew members over the next two decades. The demand is primarily driven by emerging markets and the expansion of narrowbody jet fleets as airlines modernize their operations.

Chris Broom, vice president of commercial training solutions at Boeing Global Services, highlighted the importance of workforce development and innovation in training. Boeing plans to leverage mixed reality, AI, and digital learning platforms to enhance hands-on instruction and situational awareness, particularly for pilots and technicians. The company emphasizes competency-based training and assessment as the foundation of aviation education to ensure both safety and efficiency.

The forecast indicates that Asia-Pacific regions, including China, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, will lead global personnel demand, accounting for over 40% of new hires. China alone is projected to require 426,000 new aviation workers, including 124,000 pilots. North America and Eurasia follow closely, with projected needs of 435,000 and 550,000 personnel, respectively. South Asia and Southeast Asia are expected to see the fastest growth, with demand more than tripling by 2044.

Two-thirds of the new personnel will address attrition due to retiring or exiting workers, while the remaining third will support growth in the global fleet. The forecast also notes that single-aisle airplanes will drive most of the demand for new personnel.

Boeing's 20-year forecast comes as the industry continues to grapple with post-pandemic labor shortages, particularly among pilots and aircraft mechanics. The company is committed to fostering a culture based on safety, quality, and integrity, ensuring the global aviation ecosystem remains healthy and prosperous.

References:
[1] https://seekingalpha.com/news/4470074-boeing-projects-global-demand-for-2_4m-aviation-workers-over-next-20-years
[2] https://www.boeing.com/commercial/market/pilot-technician-outlook
[3] https://www.morningstar.com/news/pr-newswire/20250722cg35251/boeing-forecasts-20-year-global-demand-for-nearly-24-million-new-commercial-pilots-technicians-cabin-crew