Top Four Risks for the Aviation Sector in 2025

Industry insights reveal critical challenges shaping the aviation sector in 2025. Experts worldwide have identified four key risks that demand attention, reflecting the evolving landscape and uncertainties that aviation companies must navigate. 

1. Cyber Incidents: The Leading Threat 

Cybersecurity has climbed to the top spot this year, overtaking business interruption. The aviation industry’s reliance on digital systems has made it increasingly vulnerable to cybercrime, IT outages, ransomware, and even GPS spoofing. High-profile incidents, such as the CrowdStrike outage in July 2024, underscored the fragility of these systems. As airlines push further into AI-driven operations and cloud computing, strengthening cybersecurity frameworks will be imperative. 

To effectively combat these risks, it is crucial to have skilled professionals who specialise in aviation cybersecurity. Investing in training and development ensures that industry personnel can anticipate and mitigate cyber threats before they cause disruptions. Furthermore, we encourage experienced cybersecurity experts to share their knowledge and mentor the next generation of aviation professionals. A well-informed and proactive workforce is key to securing the industry’s digital future. 

2. Business Interruption: Operational Fragility 

Supply chain disruptions, equipment shortages, and delays in aircraft deliveries have worsened, making business interruption a pressing concern. With the global fleet's average age reaching a record 14.8 years and over 17,000 aircraft backlogged for delivery, operators face soaring maintenance and leasing costs, impacting profitability and sustainability efforts. 

3. Regulatory Changes: Compliance Uncertainty 

Stricter sustainability laws and shifting global regulations have made compliance more complex. The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) introduces new reporting standards, while differing policies in the U.S. and Europe create uncertainty. Airlines must adapt swiftly to these evolving frameworks to avoid financial and operational setbacks. 

4. Shortage of Skilled Workforce: A Growing Crisis 

One of the most pressing challenges facing aviation today is the shortage of skilled professionals a problem that has been exacerbated by the pandemic and ongoing training limitations. 

The Royal Aeronautical Society projects that over the next decade, the industry will need: 

• 300,000 more pilots 

• 300,000 more maintenance engineers 

• 600,000 more cabin crew 

  
  

However, the current pipeline is insufficient to meet these demands. Several factors contribute to this shortage: 

• Retirements and attrition: Many experienced professionals left the industry during the pandemic, and replacements are not keeping pace. 

• Declining appeal: Aviation jobs, particularly for flight crews, have become less attractive due to high costs, long training periods, and intense working conditions. 

• Limited training capacity: Flight schools and technical training centres are unable to produce enough qualified personnel. 

• Soaring costs: The financial burden of training, especially for pilots, is prohibitive for many aspiring professionals. 

  
  

At Brookfield Aviation, we recognise that these challenges are reshaping the industry. As a global leader in aviation recruitment, we are actively working with airlines, MROs, and training institutions to bridge the skills gap. We believe the future of aviation depends on proactive talent development, strategic workforce planning, and investment in next-generation training solutions. By addressing these risks head-on, we can ensure a safer, more resilient, and sustainable future for the industry. 

Brookfield Aviation offers a wide range of job opportunities across the aviation sector, from pilots and engineers to management personnel who can help safeguard the industry’s digital future. We are constantly monitoring the market, ensuring that we match skilled professionals with roles that best align with their expertise and career aspirations. Whether you’re looking for your next opportunity, seeking to expand your skills in a rapidly evolving industry, or an airline, MRO, or aerospace company looking for skilled professionals, Brookfield Aviation International is your trusted partner for growth and excellence.