Airlines across the world continue to face concerns over pilot shortages in 2026, even as carriers expand recruitment campaigns, raise salaries, and invest heavily in accelerated flight training programmes.
Pilot shortage
CAE estimates that commercial aviation alone will need 267,000 new pilots over the next decade, with Asia-Pacific accounting for the largest share due to rapid traffic growth and fleet expansion.
Swiss International Air Lines faces a significant operational challenge as it cuts 1,400 flights, representing 1.5% of its schedule from April to October.
Air India Ltd will soon announce salary increases across verticals, beginning with pilots, as competition for cabin crew and pilots heats up in the industry.
Air India has begun hiring across all ranks and roles in preparation for the delivery of the 470 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus. Currently, the airline employs around 140 people to support approximately 140 planes.
DGCA issued almost 1,000 commercial pilot licenses in the decade, in 2022
Post pandemic there is a shortage of pilots, cabin crew, airlines, & airport staff globally as the industry poorly performed during covid.
In the middle of a competition for pilots in the United States, start-up airline Connect Airlines is attempting to entice captains with a new salary offer.
Two regional carriers owned by American Airlines will increase pilot compensation by 50% through the end of August 2024
The pilot shortage is still wreaking havoc on US American airlines, with some being forced to park planes due to a lack of pilots