pilot shortage
Another artcicle about the infamous pilot shortage... as a student pilot trying to finish up my licences I can only hope it's true!!!
CBC Newsworld Newscast Wed, 16 May 2001 22:49:29 GMT
Demand for pilots could outstrip supply in next decade: study
HALIFAX - There could be a shortage of qualified commercial pilots in the next 10 years if training, regulation and government assistance aren't updated, said a study released Wednesday.
The 241-page report from the Air Transport Association of Canada says expanding markets, a dwindling supply of ex-military pilots and an increasing rate of retirement could lead to a rising demand for qualified pilots.
The report suggests that the commercial aviation industry needs a way to forecast changes in pilot supply and demand.
"Canada is not a world leader in aviation by divine right," said Patricia Kennedy, co-chairwoman of the two-year study. "We need to plan and work hard to maintain our position."
The report makes 45 recommendations, more than half of which tackle the issue of training. Rising training costs – it currently costs between $30,000 and $50,000 to learn to fly – have made money the leading reason student pilots drop out.
The report suggests that the industry consider student aid, government participation and a review of fee structures.
Canada's more than 200 flight schools should also update their training procedures and philosophies, said the study, because currently 80 per cent of student pilots never get their licence.
The report also suggests fundamental changes in how pilots are hired. Instead of focusing solely on the number of hours flown, the study's authors suggest that the type and quality of flying be considered.
And the report calls for more female and aboriginal pilots, who currently hold three and 2.5 per cent of the nation's pilot licences, respectively.