Being a pilot, especially a helicopter pilot can be a lot of fun. But can every one who likes to be a pilot find employment? Many flight schools and aviation publications voice that there is a pilot shortage and with all the Vietnam area pilots retiring there is a need for commercial pilots. Lets look at the facts: For the USA we consult the FAA website. Data as of December 31. In 1999 we had a total of 261,903 ATP and Commercial pilots In 2008 we had a total of 271,584 ATP and Commercial pilots. Thats a plus of 9,681 pilots How about Flight Instructors? In 1999 we had a total of 79,694 CFI's in 2008 we had 93,202 CFI's Thats a plus of 13,508 flight instructors from 1999 to 2008 or 14,5%. With this steady rise in available pilots how can someone claim a shortage of pilots or flight instructors? Working as a pilot can be a lot of fun, but please do your homework and analyze the job marked before you leave a secure job. fly safe