Shortage of pilots poses economic risk
stuff.co.nz
Shortage of pilots poses economic risk
07 January 2005
By SEAN SCANLON
New Zealand's lucrative tourism and agriculture sectors are threatened by a looming commercial pilot shortage, says the Aviation Industry Association (AIA).
Last month it was reported enrolments of new commercial pilot trainees for this year had collapsed because of uncertainty over student loan funding.
AIA air transport division chairwoman Irene King said yesterday it estimated an intake of 900 students a year was required.
Inquiries from potential students had plummeted while next year's graduates would probably number about 200.
Tourism and agriculture could face a major setback because there were not enough pilots, she said.
"At one end, we're not getting as many student pilots as we would like, probably because there are a lot of mixed messages out there in the community about lack of jobs and high student debt," King said.
"For a while there was a mismatch with not enough jobs for the numbers graduating so people missed out, became disillusioned and gave up or went to jobs overseas. This situation was aggravated when the airlines increased the retiring age."
Student loans for basic pilot qualifications could cost from $50,000 to $70,000. The shortage was most evident at the level between 400 and 1000 hours flying experience, the point at which charter and topdressing pilots were recruited.
King said major airlines needed more pilots due to the introduction of new aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Dash 8.
The aviation industry was working with the Tertiary Education Commission to prepare a paper for the Government on the best funding and training options, she said.
Tourism Industry Association chief executive Fiona Luhrs said many people did not understand the vital role air services played in ensuring tourist numbers.
"Any impact on air services as a result of pilot shortages would be a big concern. It could also affect scenic flights," she said.
Air New Zealand chief pilot Captain David Morgan said yesterday the airline's need for pilots was being driven by a "bump in natural attrition" from people retiring, and introduction of its new Boeing 777 fleet.
Many of Air NZ's pilots came from smaller airlines, and it was working with industry trainers to ensure the flow-on continued.
"The challenge is for the link carriers to make sure they are getting the people coming through," Morgan said.
"There is some concern that there is pressure on the supply of pilots in New Zealand.
"The reality is tourism is New Zealand's largest earner and we need a proper aviation infrastructure to support that."
Morgan said flying had provided him with a wonderful career.
"Flying is not a difficult thing as long as you've got the right attitude. It is a skill that can be acquired.
"Very few pilots are naturals. I think I've only met two or three of those."
A healthy respect for the environment and being able to adapt were important attributes for a pilot, Morgan said.
Christchurch and Canterbury Marketing chief executive Ian Bougen said pilots were an important part of the skills mix needed if New Zealand was to meet its tourism needs.
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