Aviation Career Demand Outlook for 2025: The World Needs More Pilots

According to Boeing's Pilot and Technician Outlook, we will need 674,000 new pilots worldwide over the next 20 years to meet the growing demand for air travel, with 123,000 of those pilots in North America alone. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be 18,500 openings for airline and commercial pilots each year over the next decade. This forecast points to incredible career opportunities for aspiring aviation professionals.

The Growing Shortage of Commercial Airline Pilots

The shortage of commercial airline pilots is driven by several factors. More than 17,000 pilots are expected to reach the mandatory retirement age of 65 by 2030, creating a gap that isn’t being filled quickly enough. During the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines also offered early retirement packages to cut costs, and many pilots chose to leave the industry during that time of uncertainty. 

This pilot shortage is compounded by an increasing demand for air travel. Fueled by rising incomes, interest in international tourism, and the post-pandemic return of desire for travel, air travel has rebounded and exceeded historical averages to reach more than 4.5 billion passengers annually. With more people flying, regional growth in emerging markets like Asia and the Middle East, and an increased demand for cargo pilots to support e-commerce, airlines have expanded their fleets and added new routes.

These factors have created the perfect environment for aspiring pilots to seek professional education in aviation. If the shortage isn’t addressed, the industry could face job losses and safety concerns, leading to a significant impact on the broader economy.

 The Aviation Industry and Career Piloting

If you’re considering a career in aviation, now is the time to explore piloting opportunities. Here’s why being a pilot is one of the most rewarding and lucrative careers available:

1. High Salaries and Benefits: Entry-level pilots can earn more than $100,000 per year, with major airline pilots in the U.S. averaging over $200,000 per year. Airlines are also offering signing bonuses, better schedules, and retirement benefits to attract new talent.
2. Job Security: With the pilot shortage expected to continue for two decades, your skills are likely to remain in demand and position you to enjoy a stable career.
3. Career Growth Opportunities: The aviation industry offers a clear path for advancement, from cadet to captain, as well as opportunities to transition to ground control or management roles.
4. Cutting-Edge Technology: Pilots work with some of the most advanced technologies in the world. While autopilot systems assist, human oversight remains crucial, ensuring that pilots will always be needed.
5. Prestige and Responsibility: Pilots play a vital role in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. The responsibility that comes with the job makes it a highly respected profession.
6. Travel the World: Pilots enjoy a unique lifestyle that takes them to new destinations regularly. Whether it’s a vibrant city or a tropical paradise, every flight offers the potential for new adventures.

Your Future Career in Aviation

The world needs more pilots. Capitol Technology University’s aviation program offers access to unique opportunities and a locale that makes it an ideal space for flight training. As a student in our Aviation Professional Pilot program, you’ll gain hands-on flight training and a firm foundation in flight operations, airport and ground control operations, safety and risk management, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations, aviation technologies, and piloting skills, as well as aeronautical science, aerodynamics, weather, and navigation. Located near Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC in one of the busiest Class B airspaces in the world, you’ll be prepared to fly anywhere in the world by training in and out of the DC Special Flight Rule Area (SFRA). Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a variety of aviation careers with flight expertise, technical skills, and all necessary FAA certifications.

To learn more, contact our Admissions team or request more information.