Originally Posted by
Rated De
The industry has eaten its young. That there is dwindling supply is a combination of demographic and opportunity cost meaning not only are retirement rates increasing, there are less willing to join an industry where the pay off 'possibility' is low.
Not to mention the fact that the future prospects for Airline pilots look far from certain. Many young people are questioning how long it will be before the F/O at least goes the way of the Flight Engineer, Nav, Radio operator etc. thereby causing a massive surplus of pilots.
Within the next decade it looks increasingly likely we will see autonomous Taxi’s and potentially Air taxi’s. Once people can trust their car’s and Air taxi’s to drive themselves, how long before the ‘Airbus’ goes the same way.
Ironically, the present shortage of pilots could not have come at a worse time from this perspective. A.I. wont need simulators, allowances, rest etc. Airlines, Regulators and public acceptance may be driven by NEED.
Good luck to the TT pilots.
Personally, I would like to know what VIPA, AFAP, AIPA and even IFALPA are doing to address the looming threat to ALL professional pilots..........