Aviation

Talent Forecast
10-year outlook of demand for pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians,
and cabin crew in civil aviation

2023
1
1
Table of contents
Introduction3

Growth and demand  6

Talent forecast  6
Aviation is an evolving industry  6
Growth across the board  6
More on fleet growth  7
Retirement, attrition, and employee turnover  8
Demand already exceeding supply  9
Aviation Talent Forecast by the numbers  10

Supplying the demand  11

Finding the next generation of aviation professionals 11

Where to find talent  20
Hear from those whose careers took flight ... 24
What can be done to supply the demand 25
Tapping into the full talent pool 26

Shaping the future of aviation  28

Building the right resources for the future   28

What CAE is doing  30
Closing words: Looking ahead  34

2
Introduction
Aviation is a constantly evolving industry. In the hundred-plus since we are witnessing steady growth in
years since the Wright Brothers first took to the skies, aircraft have civil aircraft fleets, which will continue to
changed, and the air transport system has grown, but one thing has drive an increase in air travel.
remained constant – the people who give life to the aviation industry.
The ebbs and flows we have seen in the industry, especially post- With that in mind, we are happy to
pandemic, have reinforced that people will always need to travel for present the Aviation Talent Forecast, in
business, want to fly away for leisure, and millions will be attracted to which we analyze the upcoming talent
the excitement generated by a career in aviation. demand for pilots, cabin crew and
maintenance technicians worldwide.
The average person will never see all the people and effort it takes This forecast will not only focus on how
to get an aircraft off the ground, fly passengers to their destinations many people will be needed over the
safely and efficiently while providing a positive customer experience. next ten years, but also the reasons for
the high demand, what the industry can
As insiders, we know what it takes, and we must be proactive in do to attract talent, and what CAE is
recruiting the talent who will move the industry forward more doing to help meet the needs of airlines
successfully than ever. and operators for highly skilled pilots,
cabin crew and aircraft maintenance
The pandemic was the most disruptive event ever faced by the technicians.
aviation industry, and, nearly three years later, it is still early to say that
it is completely behind us. Nevertheless, there is a lot to celebrate

Before we go any further,

here is a look at the demand.

1.3M Civil aviation professionals

needed over the next 10 years

New pilots 284K

New technicians 402K

New cabin crew 599K

3
At
At aa glance
glance At a glance
1.3 millionnew
1.3 million newcivil
civil aviation
aviation
professionals
professionals needed
needed byby2032
2032.
Let’s break this down…

Commercial aviation

1,180,000
new commercial aviation professionals
needed over the next 10 years

Business aviation

106,000
new business aviation professionals
needed over the next 10 years
4
4
 Pilots

284,000
new pilots needed over the next 10 years

Aircraft maintenance technicians

402,000
new aircraft maintenance technicians
needed over the next 10 years

Cabin crew

599,000
new cabin crew needed over
the next 10 years

5
5
Growth
and demand

Talent forecast

The Aviation Talent Forecast will help us shape the

future of aviation by enabling us to prepare for the
expected wave of retirements and attrition in the
coming years.

As many people in the workforce near retirement

age, we must recruit and train the next generation of
aviation professionals because we know that better
preparation results in better performance and overall
safety.

Aviation is an evolving industry Growth across the board

The pandemic taught us one thing: people will always Despite inflation, the conflict in Ukraine, and other
need and want to travel. Even though the pandemic economic and socio-political issues, the aviation
hit the aviation industry hard, since then, steady industry has sustained growth. Encouraged by the
growth and continuous investments in the industry increased demand, operators and airlines continue to
give us plenty of momentum for the future. invest in new aircraft and technology to bolster their
operations and enhance the customer experience.
It may be too early to say that it is back to normal,
but the industry had over two years to learn how to
operate in a worst-case scenario and we are all better
prepared to deal with similar challenges in the future.

6
More on fleet growth

There are 31,000 commercial aircraft in service today, and that number is expected to grow to 43,000 by
2032 – a 39% growth over the next ten years. The primary driver of this growth is the increase in narrowbody
aircraft, which will make up 64% of the fleet by 2032 as opposed to 58% in 2022.

There are currently 22,000 business jets in service and by 2032, we expect that number to jump to 26,000
aircraft, an 18% increase in the total aircraft fleet over the next ten years. The primary driver of this growth is
the increase in large cabin business jets.

7
Retirement, attrition,
and employee turnover

By 2030, all members of the U.S. workforce born when compared to pilots and aircraft maintenance
between 1946 and 1964 (representing 30% of the technicians is driving the increased demand for people
workforce) will be of retirement age1. Mandatory to join the profession.
retirement ages for pilots will force many retirements,
creating a growing demand for airlines and operators The general aging of the workforce presents a
to fill. The rising cost of living may cause many in the challenge for airlines and operators. With massive
industry to delay retirement, leaving a significant gap retirement numbers projected over the next 10 years,
when they eventually retire. Retirement and attrition the percentage of aviation personnel over the age of
need to be addressed early on to avoid any future 50 will keep increasing in comparison to the total civil
disruptions to the current flow of operations. aviation industry pool. The retirement of experienced
pilots will need to be countered with an even larger
Today, 38% of pilots2 and 34%3 of cabin crew in the wave of new hires.
United States (U.S.) are over the age of 50. Over 50%
of aircraft maintenance technicians are over the age of In commercial aviation, new hires will be required to
404. backfill for age-based retirement, early retirement, and
pilot attrition. FAA statistics show that over 45,000
A higher rate of turnover amongst cabin crew commercial airline pilots will be required to retire in
the next 10 years. This represents almost 27% of the
commercial airline pilot population in the U.S. The
situation is similar in other parts of the world creating a
Professionals needed to need for 99,000 new commercial aviation pilots over
replace retirement/attrition the next 10 years to replace those retiring. In addition
to the 99,000 replacements, an additional 153,000
pilots will be required for the projected growth of the
industry.

125K
204K Pilots

Aircraft maintenance technicians

Cabin crew
355K

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Demand already exceeding supply

The significant need for pilots throughout the industry Both airlines and training organizations like CAE are
is being driven by a variety of factors, including taking steps to address the demand helping pilots
demographics, mandatory retirement ages, early to make their way back to the flight deck. Several
retirements due to COVID, and the projected growth regional airlines have begun offering significantly
of the aviation industry. Industry experts project that increased compensation packages to attract new
the demand for pilots will exceed supply on a global pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians and cabin
scale in the next year or two and continue for the next crew. Airlines and business aviation operators also
decade. This need for pilots can already be seen in partner with training organizations (and in some
the U.S. where several regional airlines are cutting cases acquired or started their own) to provide post-
service and parking airplanes due to lack of qualified graduation job opportunities offering incentives like
crew members. Regional airlines were the first to see guaranteed placement and sponsorships to reduce
the effects of a lack of qualified pilots as larger airlines the financial risk of flight training programs. Airlines
hired pilots from regionals to fill their own needs. The have also started outreach programs to show that
Regional Airline Association trade group reports that aviation is an attractive career choice, encourage
414 regional jets (22% of their member-operated interest in flying as a career, and bolster Science,
aircraft) have already been parked due to lack of crew5. Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
(RAA, 2023) education efforts.

Several factors threaten the current and future pilot While pilot and cabin crew demand received
supply and the rapid rebound in air travel demand significant attention in the last year or so, the aircraft
following the pandemic exacerbated them. Several maintenance technician talent pool is likewise
thousand pilots took early retirement at the height of constrained. The overall aircraft maintenance
the pandemic and, in the next few years, thousands technician workforce is older than the broader
more will face mandatory retirement at age 65. workforce and many technicians are reaching
Simultaneously, traditional pilot entry points, including retirement age. While newer aircraft require less
the military and self-funded training, produce fewer maintenance than older generation aircraft, the
pilots. growth of the fleet puts increasing demand on aircraft
maintenance technicians.

9
Organizations like CAE are finding new and innovative In addition, CAE continually invests in the development
ways to inform and encourage people to consider of high tech solutions to make training more efficient
a career in aviation. CAE has partnered with several while enhancing safety. We have deployed online
airlines around the world to provide training and learning tools, improved scheduling, and curriculums,
job opportunities. We champion initiatives like the and built a worldwide network of training centres to
CAE Women in Flight program to encourage more allow pilots to spend less time traveling to and from
women to reach for the sky and follow their dreams of training and more time on the flight deck.
becoming a pilot.

Before we get to recruiting and training, let us take a closer look at the numbers.

Aviation Talent Forecast by the numbers

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Our To forecast the demand over the next ten years, we

methodology
first looked at the current commercial and business
aviation aircraft fleets, and calculated the personnel
required to fly and maintain them.

Then, we looked at forecast fleet changes (both

The number of flights and active fleet are the
new deliveries and retirements of older models), and
primary drivers of the overall demand for civil aviation
calculated the additional personnel required for the
professionals. Properly staffing these flights and
anticipated fleet growth.
replacing pilots, cabin crew, and aircraft maintenance
technicians leaving the workforce due to retirement
Finally, we used estimated retirement and turnover
and attrition represent the underlying causes of the
rates to calculate the personnel required to replace
demand.
those retiring or leaving the industry.

Supplying
the demand
Finding the next generation of aviation professionals

Knowing that retirement and attrition will increase over time, there is a tremendous opportunity for the industry
to forge a path for fresh, innovative minds to join the ranks and re-evaluate the way they do things by using
technology that will improve current workflows. As members of a new generation start their careers in aviation,
they will bring a new perspective and will no doubt find ways to improve and optimize the way the industry
operates.

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Supplying the demand

Commercial
aviation
Commercial aviation is making significant progress and showing signs of air traffic returning to pre-COVID
levels and beyond. Fleet growth and recent changes in operating models - “Point-to-Point” versus “Hub and
Spoke”- will drive demand for the foreseeable future. The domestic U.S. market is leading the way to a successful
recovery with leisure travel spurring demand, especially with low-cost carriers.

Commercial aviation talent demand by region

Europe
241K
44K
North America
265K 75K

63K 122K

90K Asia Pacific

116K 421K
Middle East 91K
Africa 128K
106K
26K 28K
224K
South America 3K 22K
93K 10K 78K
22K 13K
23K
46K

Commercial Commercial aircraft

Cabin crew
pilots maintenance technicians

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Commercial
aviation by the numbers

New commercial pilots needed: 252K New commercial aircraft

maintenance technicians needed: 328K

New cabin crew members needed: 599K

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Air travel recovering and on track Airlines adjusted after
to be at pre-COVID levels soon the pandemic

Air travel has recovered steadily despite the current Despite measures taken in airports and on board
conflict in Ukraine and inflation issues. aircraft to allow for social distancing, people largely
stopped flying as the entire travel journey became
“While the industry’s recovery from the global compromised by the fear of infection.
pandemic has been slowed down by various factors
such as the conflict in Ukraine and continued zero- The pandemic forced airlines to reassess their
COVID policy in China P.R., IATA Economics expect business and operating models, reducing international
the industry to recover to the 2019 traffic level in 2024, operations due to border closures, and pivoting their
with North America leading the pack in 2023, followed focus to domestic networks. This shift led to a sharp
by Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East in 2024, decline in widebody aircraft use in favor of newer long-
and Africa and Asia Pacific in 2025.” (IATA, 2022)6 range narrowbody aircraft with the flexibility to be used
on long and short-haul flights.
There certainly are challenges that could impact future
passenger and corporate plans, but there is optimism Airlines also simplified their fleets by parking or retiring
surrounding the continued growth of the industry. less efficient aircraft ahead of schedule or reducing
the number of aircraft types they operate. In addition,
“Should that forecast prove to be accurate, the some airlines re-invested in their IT and network
industry will have recovered from its worst crisis in systems, while others opted for better air filtration
history within four years, with a rate of recovery five or ionization systems and routine cleaning to help
times faster than the growth observed in the past 20 passengers feel safe on board.
years – a phenomenal achievement compared to past
recoveries and given the severity of the contraction.”
(IATA, 2022)6 Increased demand of air cargo

Protective personal equipment (PPE) and medicine

initially powered the healthy demand for air cargo in
2020. Challenges in the supply chain, coupled with
shift in consumer behavior to e-commerce resulted
in further growth of air cargo, which caused several
airlines to start cargo operations with dedicated
aircraft. Operators saw increased yields and flight
activity. As commercial air travel recovers, we can
expect the air cargo market to normalize.

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Cascade effect caused by fleet
shuffle and early pilot retirements

In the wake of the pandemic, which shuffled fleets and crew, airlines with

fewer aircraft types were in a better position to recover faster, requiring

fewer training events than operators with more complex fleets.

Early pilot retirements during the pandemic exacerbated the challenges the

industry faced with pilot demand. When a seasoned pilot retires from an

airline, it triggers a series of events across the pilot supply chain:

Seasoned mainline captains retire This movement within the ranks creates a strain on the

pilot pipeline that impacts the regional airlines. This is

why we saw a reduction in regional flight activity when

Mainline captains move up in the ranks to compared to that of mainline carriers. Regional airlines

backfill for retirements countered the issue by boosting pay to attract new

pilots.

Mainline first officers are promoted to captain

Regional captains become mainline first officers

Regional first officers are promoted to captain

Regional airlines face a shortage of new first officers

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Mature markets leading recovery

Mature aviation markets such as North America and Europe are leading the recovery7. These markets historically
have seen high GDP per capita, which are correlated with the penetration of air travel. As individuals and families
hung tight during the pandemic, their “cabin fever” and desire to travel grew, which created a sharp rise in air
travel demand coming out of the pandemic.

The U.S. domestic market was not unique in this respect as many governments provided aid to airlines to help
maintain operations. However, the industry could not handle the demand. It took time for airlines to restore their
operations.

Low-cost carriers with fewer fleet types and a focus on domestic leisure travel were the first to recover.
Nevertheless, mainline airlines will benefit from international traffic once it restores to pre-pandemic levels.

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Supplying the demand

Business
aviation
Business aviation has seen sustained growth and success during the pandemic when travel was more restrictive.
To avoid large crowds in airports and aboard commercial flights, more people turned to business aviation, which
has increased usage and stimulated growth for the sector.

Business aviation talent demand per region

Europe
18K
North America 8K
66K 10K
18K
48K Asia Pacific
6K
Middle East 2K
Africa 1K
4K
3K ~450

South America 1K 1K
12K 2K
3K
9K

Business aviation Business aircraft

pilots maintenance technicians

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Business
aviation by the numbers

18
Business aviation surpasses
pre-pandemic levels

Business aviation has blossomed as new customers Demand for business jets also increased and caused
experience the safety, convenience and comfort of a rush to purchase used aircraft. At one point in
flying private. early 2022, only 2% of the business aircraft fleet was
available for sale, the lowest it has been in over 15
Once travel restrictions were lifted in 2020 and years.
2021, business aviation activity took off. Business
aircraft allowed companies and individuals to control While demand has eased somewhat, the business
who they flew with, avoid crowds at airports, and fly aviation market has seen sustained high demand and
directly to their destinations. Flight activity in the will continue to grow.
two largest markets, the U.S. and Europe, surpassed
pre-pandemic levels, making business aviation a The U.S. remains the largest out of all business
true success story coming out of the pandemic. aviation markets, but it is rapidly growing in other
Business aviation activity reached 2019 levels by global markets, most notably India, China, and Brazil.
mid-2021 and continued to climb. Flights in Europe
reached 25% above 2019 levels in late 2021, and, in
the U.S., reached these levels in early 2022. This
demand for flights caused charter and fractional
operators to scramble to find sufficient pilots, aircraft
maintenance technicians, and staff.

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Where to
find talent
If we do not take action to attract new people to
our industry, air travel will take a hit. Therefore, we
need to do everything we can before it negatively
affects operations.

The entire industry should be committed to using

available resources to recruit, train, and shape the
future of aviation. CAE Parc Aviation’s resourcing
services help airlines and operators find the talent
they need to allow them to respond to market
opportunities quickly. Unscheduled aircraft
maintenance, seasonal network adjustments, and
aircraft deliveries are examples of inflection points
for operators to find trained personnel.

Seeing the number of pilots, cabin crew members,

and aircraft maintenance technicians required to
meet the demand may be overwhelming, but rest
assured, there are ways to recruit people from
different backgrounds and attract them to a career
in aviation.

• Digital marketing (on Facebook,

LinkedIn, Instagram, Indeed, etc.)
• Job and career fairs
• Special programs
• Airline and operator partnerships
• STEM programs

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 284,000
new pilots needed over the next 10 years
39% growth in pilot demand from 2023 to 2032

New pilots needed per region

21
21
 402,000
new aircraft maintenance technicians
needed over the next 10 years
78% growth in aircraft maintenance technician demand from 2023 to 2032

New aircraft maintenance technicians needed per region

22
22
 599,000
new cabin crew members needed
over the next 10 years
45% growth in cabin crew demand from 2023 to 2032

New cabin crew members needed per region

23
23
Hear from those whose careers took flight...

Pilots
Where passion meets success
A career as a pilot is both rewarding and satisfying on many levels. In a fast-paced environment
like aviation, being a pilot means to successfully overcome challenges daily.

As pilots, we are connected by our passion for aviation. For me, this passion has been with me
Pamela Behr all my life, passed down by my father. When we first start our careers, our flying lessons begin
with small aircraft like the C172. From there, the exploration begins, and the passion keeps on
Training Manager, growing.
Business Aviation and
Helicopter Training at CAE I would advise anyone considering a career in aviation to go for it! The sector is rapidly growing
and there are many opportunities for success.

Cabin Crew
Spread your wings!
I love being a cabin crew member because it is not a typical job: you grow wings in every sense
of the term both professionally and personally. In fact, to me, it’s not even a job, it’s a lifestyle.

This passion for aviation came to me when I was a child. I would watch a plane fly by and I would
Alina Olteanu be completely fascinated. I was lucky to start flying on a B747 to incredible destinations at
the start of my career. To this day, what makes every journey worth it, is a passenger’s sign of
Cabin Crew member appreciation at the end of a flight. A smile, nice words, a kind ‘thank you’, and even sometimes a
at Wamos Air hug makes it all worthwhile.

If you’re thinking of a career as cabin crew, don’t think twice and follow your heart. This might
just be your calling to spread your wings.

Aircraft Maintenance Technicians

Watch your craft successfully take off
The life of an aircraft technician is very exciting and fulfilling, especially if you are fascinated by
airplanes. This is a job where you will never stop learning since the industry is constantly evolving
at the pace of technological advancement, so there is never a dull moment.

Alphious Mclean With over 25 years of experience as an aircraft engineer, there is no doubt in my mind that
pursuing a career in aviation is an excellent choice. If you are dedicated and committed to
Senior Maintenance Training your craft, there is no limit to what you can achieve within this field. To me, the icing on the
Instructor - Airbus Aircraft cake comes when you watch this marvelous state-of-the-art airplane taxi out and take off
Fleet at CAE successfully.

My advice for anyone interested in pursuing a career as an aircraft technician would be to go for
it. The sky’s the limit.

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What can 5. We should also survey target audiences to determine
be done to the existing stigmas attached to a career in aviation
when recruiting. By knowing what people view as

supply the
obstacles to becoming a pilot or a cabin crew member,
we can demystify those misconceptions and prove that
their concerns may not hold as much weight as they

demand originally thought. When it comes to legitimate worries

like associated costs, we can provide information about
funding programs and much more.
To meet this demand, we will need to be proactive
and creative. The following list of items is what can be 6. There is a growing number of Maintenance, Repair,
implemented to show that a future in aviation is possible and Overhaul (MRO) scholarships, however, we need more
and affordable. scholarships to entice people to join or apply and we also
need additional educational and industry partnerships to

1. Creating programs to support career development supply the upcoming demand.

paths to make the industry more appealing for new talent

while retaining experienced pilots, cabin crew members, 7. Lowering the cost of entry into the aviation industry,
and aircraft maintenance technicians. especially for pilots. There are many eager people
interested in becoming a pilot, however, it can be costly
to earn a certificate. This can discourage many aspiring
2. Reaching out to potential candidates earlier in their individuals.
schooling and educate them about various roles and
progressions. As a training provider for pilots, cabin crew
and aircraft maintenance technicians of the future, we are 8. Developing an unspecialized and versatile workforce of
aircraft maintenance technicians to optimize the workload
taking the lead to educate and guide the market.
and efficiently distribute maintenance tasks.

3. Attracting the digital natives who spend most of their 9. Establishing cadet programs and aviation academies
time browsing and interacting online to reach and appeal
across the world will provide accessibility to aspiring
to Generation Z and open their minds to the possibilities
individuals who want to have a career behind the flight
in aviation. The aviation industry needs to attempt to cater
deck. Upon successful completion from an aviation
to the younger generations through the use technology
academy and gaining flying experience, graduates may
by showcasing the latest and interesting innovations like
even have a direct path to become a First Officer at an
Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial
airline or operator. We encourage the industry to continue
Intelligence (AI) that will lead the way in the future. developing these direct pathways to help make dreams of
becoming a pilot a reality.
4. Employers should also assess any existing unconscious
bias to reduce any obstacle certain underrepresented 10. Embracing partnerships with training organizations
groups may be facing by offering financial aid, work-study can alleviate the stress to recruit, train, and retain aviation
programs, and sponsorships. They also need to culturally professionals, including instructors. Operators could form
propel the industry further into the 21st century and partnerships with ATOs (Approved Training Organizations),
alleviate the strain on resources by bringing more diversity which would enable them to refocus their efforts on their
to the workforce by proactively recruiting women and all core competencies. By doing so, operators can become
underrepresented groups. more agile and flexible, minimizing operational risk at the
same time.

25
Tapping into
the full talent pool
Embracing diversity

We cannot limit ourselves in the search for talent. Talent takes on all forms and we need to approach this
search for new recruits with an open mind. We need to rid ourselves of our unconscious bias and open the
possibilities for all underrepresented groups (including people of colour, Indigenous people, members of the
LGBTQ2+ communities, people who are or neurodiverse or who have disabilities) to pursue a fruitful career
in aviation. We should let talent dictate how far a person goes with their career by removing all stigmas and
perceived limitations.

26
Currently, only 10% of the
757,000 FAA registered pilots
of all categories are women
For Airline Transport Pilots (ATP), the rate is only 5%,
with just over 8,200 women on commercial flight
decks nationwide.

Currently, only 3% of
the 337,000 FAA registered
mechanics and repair
personnel in the US
are women

27
Shaping Sustainability is key to our future

the future
This change will also come about by embracing
sustainable practices that will increase the efficiency
of future aircraft and lower the industry’s carbon

of aviation footprint.

To achieve sustainability, we need to ensure a

cleaner world for next generations by making aircraft
Building the right resources more fuel efficient and achieving net zero by 2050.
for the future Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a lower-carbon
alternative, is meant to replace standard kerosene-
The future of aviation hinges on welcoming change. based jet fuel with a fraction of its carbon footprint,
This change will come by selecting candidates from which would reduce carbon emissions without the
an increasingly diverse talent pool and showing them need to develop new ways to propel aircraft. SAF is
they have a place in the industry. We can do this by typically a mix of waste products, residual materials
implementing various programs that highlight and from fuel manufacturing, non-food crops and other
benefit underrepresented groups. sustainable sources, combined into aviation fuel.

Another fuel source is hydrogen. Aircraft

More diversity to help welcome manufacturers are assessing aircraft platforms that
a new generation of aviation will run on hydrogen instead of fossil fuels. Thereby
professionals helping reduce carbon emissions resulting from flight
operations. Hydrogen makes a promising candidate
Bringing diversity to aviation is important to the to help achieve climate goals.
industry. We need to create a culture and ecosystem
where all people feel included and that they belong, The development of a rechargeable electric aircraft
without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, gender battery for training purposes could help lower
identity or expression, sexual orientation, national the aviation industry’s carbon footprint. CAE’s
origin, disability, age or veteran status because partnership with Piper expects to convert part of its
none of these characteristics or traits should be the Piper Archer training fleet to an electric variant. A
deciding factor when reaching your dreams. new training curriculum will be developed for electric
training aircraft that aims to reduce carbon emissions
and noise levels at flight schools while training new
pilots to operate this cutting-edge technology.

28
High tech is leading the way

This is an exciting time to be in aviation as we’re witnessing its future take shape right before our eyes.

We are on the cusp of a new era of aviation – one of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). While CAE has not included
workforce projections surrounding AAM in this forecast, there is a growing industry realization that the launch
of AAM operations will further increase demand for professional pilots and technicians commencing by the
middle of the decade.

When considering a career in AAM, there are many factors that may incentivize an individual to this sector.
Firstly, it is an opportunity to pioneer a new era of flight, leveraging the most advanced and innovative
technologies aviation has experienced in the last 70 years. Lifestyle changes and work-life balance will be
enhanced with pilots returning home daily and avoiding long overnight travels, limiting distance away from
home and loved ones. We may see more women, who disproportionately tend to be the primary caregivers,
enter aviation due to the increased flexibility of working conditions. When building an entirely new workforce,
the industry can build a culture of inclusion for underrepresented groups, redefining who can participate in
aviation, free from any preconceptions of what a pilot or technician should look like.

Amidst an already existing pilot demand, through strong coordination and collaboration across industry
stakeholders, there is potential for AAM operations to serve as a pathway program for pilots to build their
flight hours on these aircraft and eventually transition into traditional commercial, business aviation or
helicopter operations. However, this is dependent on regulatory approvals to recognize these hours, which
may not be anticipated in the early years of operations.

It would be beneficial if regulators and the industry work together to ensure pilots of AAM aircraft have a
clear and defined pathway into other sectors such as airline, business aviation or helicopter operations. This
collaboration between stakeholders will not only accelerate the development of AAM, but also promote
holistic aviation careers and aid supplying the pilot demand.

Other than AAM, high tech has amplified the way companies train talent. CAE can provide both in-person or
remote access to courses and workshops through eLearning and immersive VR experiences that perfectly
simulate training for pilots, cabin crew and aircraft maintenance technicians. CAE also leverages data and
analytics to provide Evidence-Based and Competency-Based training that will help train talent efficiently,
which will reduce turnover.

There is plenty to get excited about and to prepare for because all the new aircraft mentioned in the previous
sections will also need pilots and aircraft maintenance technicians to ensure they remain in the air once
they’re up and running.

29
 Training
What CAE With so much experience retiring and the growing

is doing need to train a new generation of talent, combining

technology and training is now more important than
ever to ensure the future of aviation with an emphasis
on safety and efficiency. We can achieve this goal by
providing immersive training to all pilots, cabin crew
Technology to enable members, and aircraft maintenance technicians. We
transformation can assess their logged time and performance to
measure how effective the training has been.
As we continue to elevate the pilot training standard
above and beyond the threshold of equipping pilots
CAE is a dynamic place where clients can use the
to simply be ready to pass a regulatory test, CAE
latest technologies, put theory into practice, and
aims to standardize its training efforts across our Civil
work in innovative teams on stimulating problems
Aviation business to ensure that pilots are “mission
while being coached by a mentor and experienced
ready”, irrespective of their experience levels,
CAE employees. The multidisciplinary work
through the adoption of Competency-Based Training
environment allows clients to acquire new knowledge
and Assessment (CBTA) principles.
that is transferable to many fields and to learn
more about future employment opportunities at
To this end, we have partnered with IATA to develop
CAE. Some of our internships even provide travel
what we believe to be both, the first Competency-
opportunities.
Based Training Program Designer Course, as well as
the first Competency-Based Training Program for
Using products like CAE RiseTM and CAE Pelesys
our “Instructor Trainer” cadre, who will in turn train
will enable any airline, flight department or training
and evaluate other instructors.
organization to ensure that the proper training
requirements are met and that they are in line with all
To ensure our instructors are upskilled to deliver this
regulations.
type of training, online modules introducing CBTA
principles have been progressively rolled out to
For instance, CAE RiseTM uses Metrics-Based Insights
our 2,000 instructors worldwide, as a prerequisite
(MBI) and telemetry data to liberate instructors
to them attending a three-day CBTA Instructor
during the grading process so they can focus on
transition course. A five-day Standards Instructor
a pilot’s soft skills to better assess their overall
course is also being rolled out with the intent that a
performance. Instructors can then use the data
global initial and recurrent instructors assessment is
during their debrief and show clients how they
conducted using the CBTA competency framework
performed a particular maneuver.
for instructors.

One of the ways to increase learning retention is by

Additionally, we have worked with several regulators
to encourage the adoption of CBTA and to ensure
that their personnel was suitably informed to oversee
the implementation of CBTA as intended.

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practicing what has been learned, but leveraging live aircraft for maintenance training is often a challenge.
Developing VR solutions to reduce costs and risks related to aircraft handling represents, for CAE, an
effective solution to providing a safe environment for students to practice their skills. Clients also receive
better training with tools like a virtual simulator, emulators or interactive schematics that offer an engaging
approach to flight deck familiarization. Hybrid classrooms, which include a mix of physically present clients
and others attending virtually, provide the best of both worlds and boost client engagement.

The tools and resources available at CAE are ideal for training cabin crew members to dedicate their time to
what matters most: passengers.

Also known as “Safety Professionals”, cabin crew need to ensure that passengers feel safe and comfortable
from the moment they step on board, until the moment they leave the aircraft. It may just seem like they offer
ice or no ice, cookies or pretzels, chicken or pasta to the average flyer, however, underneath their uniforms,
they don the metaphorical jacket of a firefighter, the scrubs of a medical professional, or the notebook of a
therapist.

The job of a cabin crew member is a masterful juggling act that requires them to not only keep a multitude
of tasks in mind as they simultaneously cater to all the possible whims of weary passengers. To successfully
accomplish all of that, they need a top-notch training program that will help prepare them for it all.

At CAE, we offer a complete suite of training programs and solutions to empower clients to build and
advance their career as a pilot, cabin crew and/or aircraft maintenance technician. And we help them keep
track of their training throughout their entire career from a single platform with our digitally-based training
management tools. From cadet to captain, CAE has everything they need for their career to take flight.

For airlines and operators, we strive to meet the training needs of the market. We are opening new training
centres around the globe to increase training accessibility in a multitude of aircraft types. We are relocating
full flight simulators to cater to operator needs and to better meet demand. We strive to create partnership
opportunities with airlines, operators, and Original Equipment Manufacturers to enable better pathways to a
successful aviation career.

Our global footprint has more than doubled in the last decade. To meet the pilot training demand, we offer
300+ full flight simulators and 170+ aircraft across nearly 60 training centres catering to the most common
aircraft fleet types. CAE is also developing Mixed Reality Training devices like the CAE 700MXR that will
complement existing Flight Training Devices of various types. To meet the cabin crew training demand,
we have 12 global locations that offer programs meeting international regulatory requirements combined
with practical training. To meet the aircraft maintenance technician training demand, we also have 12 global
locations that provide a full suite of programs across dozens of aircraft fleet types.

Our pilot training solutions span across all phases of the training journey. From ground school to flight
training devices to full flight simulators, we aim to offer a seamless experience. We embrace new technology

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 Enhancing communication and transparency can
translate in better efficiency for any company. For
instance, a product like Operations Task Board from
the Flight Operations Solutions suite offered by CAE,
provides users with a complete and user-friendly
view of all operations. Step changes in Graphic User
Interface (GUI) mean that traditional Gantt charts
are replaced by simple, modular windows and alerts
to manage disruptions and find solutions in real-
time. All this being powered by Artificial Intelligence
and Machine Learning to optimize daily operations
effortlessly.

Diversity
in our simulation equipment. One highlight is the
advancement in visuals, which is powered by gaming To help people reach their aviation dreams, CAE
engine technologies. The results are true-to-life has developed programs like CAE Women in Flight
visual images that will offer more realism during to encourage women to register for flight training
training. and grow the ranks of female pilots. Beyond CAE
Women in Flight, we are exploring other initiatives to
Digital products inspire the next generation of professionals to choose
aviation by sharing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
As far as efficiency is concerned, there are several (DEI) best practices with airlines and helping
digital products within our Flight Operations instructors and pilots to be more inclusive.
Solutions suite that will help any airline or operator
manage their operations on the ground and in the air,
linking crew and operators to each other. Applications Sustainability
like CAE’s RosterBuster provides an optimal working
experience that ensures all cabin crew members As the first Canadian Aerospace company to become
remain connected to the operator by receiving live carbon neutral in 2020, we plan to convert part of
updates on flights and connecting with coworkers
and loved ones in a centralized app.

From crew engagement to flight management, the

recent milestones that we have reached using the
technology at our disposal is helping airlines elevate
their operations in several aspects.

32
our global Piper Archer training fleet to realize a
potential of up to 45% reduction of our Scope 1 (fuel)
emissions over the coming years.

The introduction of a digital ecosystem for Civil

Aviation will support the environmental effort of our
customers through the optimization of their flight
plans, generating significant carbon savings. We also
offer refurbished simulators to our customers as an
attractive option for them to reduce their carbon
footprint and we leverage our innovative culture to
develop eco-efficient simulators.

Aviation careers
Scholarship programs offered by our partners is a
tremendous way to entice newcomers to aviation.
CAE.com hosts multiple pages outlining all the steps
needed to follow a career as a pilot, cabin crew
member or aircraft maintenance technician. All the
information is categorized and presented in steps to
allow interested parties to find the exact information
they’re looking for.

We are committed to using all the resources possible

to help recruit, train and shape the future of the
aviation industry through various funding programs
and sponsorship opportunities.

One of the factors driving retention is professional There are many programs available to candidates
development within an organization. CAE offers interested in becoming a cabin crew member.
programs like CAE Ready to Lead to aircraft Starting a career as a cabin crew member or adding
maintenance technicians that encourage professional it to your career will open doors for any individual.
development strategies to nurture employees by Individuals who have experience as cabin crew
gaining skills to achieve their potential. members tend to be sought out simply due to their
While other programs provide technical skills people skills and for being able to perform in an
development, CAE Ready to Lead helps aircraft environment where the stakes are high.
maintenance technicians to develop leadership
skills to perform better and prepare for positions of
greater responsibility.

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 Closing words:
Looking ahead
• We need 1.3M aviation professionals to
mitigate retirements, attrition and growth of
the market in the coming years.

• Diversity and inclusion will be the key to

meeting the demand for aviation talent.

• Sustainability must remain top of mind as we

continue to make progress with the electric
aircraft and AAM to support sustainable
aviation.

• We need to continue to leverage and develop

new technologies that will not only work
smarter but also create a safer world.

• AAM will be an inevitable part of our future. We

cannot ignore the potential of this air travel
sector. We should prepare for it.

Start filling your pipeline

Throughout this forecast, we have showcased the immense demand for civil aviation professionals over the
next ten years. The aviation industry is expected to experience aircraft fleet growth across the board and
there is a consistently increasing demand to travel. There are extraordinary technological advancements,
which makes it the right time to get into aviation.

To maintain this momentum, we need to take action to ensure that we account for the retirement waves and
attrition to help avoid any disruption to future operations.

The talent search needs to widen by diversifying the target audience and by showing young professionals
entering the workforce that aviation is open to all who desire to be part of this dynamic and evolving industry.

Visit the web version of the forecast at cae.com/aviation-talent-forecast

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Footnotes

1. U.S. Census Bureau. (2022, February 25). 2020 Census Will Help Policymakers Prepare for the Incoming
Wave of Aging Boomers, 2020, https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/12/by-2030-all-baby-
boomers-will-be-age-65-or-older.html

2. Pilot Institute. (2022). Average Age Statistics of Pilots: Are We in a Pilot Shortage? Pilot Institute.
https://pilotinstitute.com/pilot-age-statistics/

3. B, A. (n.d.). Can I Become a Flight Attendant at 40/50/60? Am I Too Old? These Gold Wings.
https://www.thesegoldwings.com/age-flight-attendant/

4. Aircraft Maintenance Technician Demographics and Statistics [2023]: Number Of Aircraft Maintenance
Technicians In The US. (2022, September 9).
https://www.zippia.com/aircraft-maintenance-technician-jobs/demographics/

5. Regional Airline Association. (2023, February 6) Small Community Air Service & the Pilot Shortage,
https://www.raa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/1Q23-Small-Community-Air-Service-Deck-Final.pdf

6. Bednarikova, M. Quarterly Air Transport Chartbook. IATA Quarterly Chartbook Q3, 2022,
https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/quarterly-air-transport-
chartbook-q3-2022/

7. Vanolli, A. Air Passenger Market Analysis. IATA Economics, 2022,

https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/air-passenger-market-analysis--
-november-2022/

Disclaimer: The statements contained herein are provided for general information purposes only. All content
in this report consider CAE’s perspective on the market as of June 2023. Actual outcomes may vary
depending on certain market conditions. CAE provides its forecast based on its models, aircraft and air travel
traffic trends, and industry sources.

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