Skills Shortages Continue to Challenge Aviation – Strategies for Industry Recovery

The aviation sector faces a persistent challenge: a skills shortage exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Airlines, airports, and aerospace companies are still struggling to recover after shedding vast numbers of experienced staff during the crisis, a situation that has impacted profitability, operational efficiency, and safety. 

Pandemic’s Impact on Staffing

When the pandemic hit, airlines grounded fleets and faced reduced passenger numbers, forcing many to furlough or lay off pilots, cabin crew, check-in staff, and ground crew. By the time travel restrictions eased, many experienced employees had moved on to other industries, and the sector lost 2.3 million jobs globally about 21% of the pre-pandemic workforce. 

The inability to bring back experienced staff has left airlines scrambling to fill critical roles. Pilots have been difficult to replace. This shortfall has spurred airlines to invest in training academies and bursaries, but recovery has been slow, with operational and safety challenges persisting. 

Evolving Training Needs

Addressing the skills gap is further complicated by the rapid evolution of aviation technology. Airlines are under increasing pressure to meet sustainability requirements, incorporating energy-efficient aircraft with advanced equipment and software. New pilots and returning crew must acquire upgraded technical expertise to manage these innovations. 

Cabin crew training has also expanded to address pandemic-related safeguarding measures, passenger safety concerns, and conflict management. With stricter regulatory requirements across air corridors, training programmes must ensure cabin crew are well-prepared to meet varying international standards. 

Ground Crew Shortages and Safety Concerns

Ground crew shortages present an even greater challenge. Inexperienced ground personnel have contributed to maintenance issues, airside safety concerns, and flight turnaround delays. Incidents involving improper maintenance, such as landing gear malfunctions and engine cowl detachments, highlight the critical need for skilled ground staff. 

Compounding the problem, global supply chain pressures and the increased complexity of modern aircraft materials have lengthened repair times, further delaying the return of damaged aircraft to service. 

Rising Demand and Staffing Pressures

As passenger numbers recover to pre-pandemic levels and continue to grow, particularly in emerging markets like China, India, and Brazil, the demand for experienced aviation staff is set to rise dramatically. Airlines worldwide are actively recruiting, even calling on retired pilots to return to duty to fill training and operational gaps. 

Technological advancements, such as vertical take-off and landing aircraft, may provide some relief in short-haul operations. However, commercial aviation will continue to rely heavily on skilled pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff in the foreseeable future. 

The Role of Insurers and Industry Collaboration

Aviation insurers play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. By engaging with airlines, airports, and training organisations, insurers can help facilitate vocational programmes that expedite workforce recovery. Moreover, discussions about business interruption coverage, liability valuations, and costs related to training and recruitment are essential for carriers planning to expand operations. 

Brookfield Aviation International recognises the critical role of strategic workforce planning in overcoming these industry-wide challenges. By fostering collaborations between airlines, insurers, and training institutions, the aviation sector can better adapt to evolving demands while ensuring operational safety and efficiency. Brookfield’s expertise in aviation recruitment is poised to support the industry in addressing these skills shortages and driving sustainable growth in the years to come.