Board Report November 2025

If the cost of training is expensive, what does the profitability of a career look like? How much of a demand is there currently for pilots?

● There has been an ongoing pilot shortage due to retirement in recent years. In May 2023, the median annual wage for pilots was $219,140, with some pilots working for major airlines earning over $700,000 per year. According to FLYING Magazine, a commercial pilot's total career earnings could surpass $13 million by age 65. Airline employees may also receive a wide variety of benefits including healthcare, 401k, and retirement plans. ● Mandatory Retirement in the Airlines: The FAA prohibits airlines from employing pilots over the age of 65, and estimates show that mandatory retirements will peak in 2025–2026. ● Industry growth: The Airbus Global Market Forecast predicts that worldwide passenger traffic will increase by about 4% each year over the next 20 years. Boeing estimates that there will be a demand for 649,000 new pilots worldwide between 2024 and 2042 ● The demand for pilots will greatly outstrip supply over the next decade. According to their 2022 estimates, the US market will likely have a shortage of nearly 30,000 pilots by 2030. Regional airlines are likely to be the hardest hit. ● Regional Airlines such as Frontier, Go-Jet, and Envoy have been offering $120,000 sign on bonuses to new pilots and salaries ranging from $90,000 - $120,000. The same companies also offer training repayment options. What if a student goes through this program and decides they do not want to be a pilot or is medically disqualified to fly? ● Aviation is not restricted to those who fly. A student may discover through this training that while they might not want to fly, that there are many opportunities to work in the industry. Air traffic controller, Airframe and Powerplant mechanic, Aviation marketing, Aerospace engineer, and Aircraft Management are just a few of the opportunities a student could realize their interest in and develop a passion for as they go through this program. ● Students who are medically disqualified will be given resources on how to apply for waivers for certain medical conditions potentially allowing them to still become a pilot. Where can the course be taught? ● We have the opportunity with LACC to host students at the local airport and we will exhaust all efforts to do the same for any school with an airport within a 30 minute drive to transport students. Airports are the preferred setting for a class like this to highlight the career paths and build excitement. Contact information