The challenge of the 2030s will be trying to fill seats. Which is why it’s a good time to be GA Job ready mid this decade. And trying to fill those seats with quality and well trained people. They will become harder and harder to get as each year passes. Those players out in the Far East will have no choice but to pay considerably more, with large sign on bonuses. We have all seen the dollars China is willing to offer.
Players like Rex will have a tough task trying to fill and maintain the left seat in whatever turboprop they are operating. Qantas and Virgin NG will be the employer of choice. Jetstar will get burnt with high turnover and a generally negative internal culture.
Those currently in the late 20s, early 30s should have pretty good careers.
Standby will be a thing of the past in 20 years. Just won’t be any bodies to even consider such a scheme. Sickies will just equal cancelled flights. I’ve already seen this play out in a few places.