The aviation industry is facing a significant pilot shortage in 2025, leading to widespread flight cancellations and operational challenges. This shortage is attributed to factors such as increased retirements, pandemic-induced training backlogs, and heightened demand for air travel.
SWISS International Air Lines: The airline has cancelled approximately 1,400 flights, about 1.5% of its scheduled operations between April and October 2025. Affected routes include long-haul flights to Chicago and Shanghai, as well as various European destinations. The cancellations are due to a combination of pilot shortages, long-term absences, and the retraining of crews for the new Airbus A350 aircraft.
Finnair: Between 1 June and 11 August 2025, Finnair has cancelled 230 flights, impacting approximately 28,000 passengers. The cancellations affect both long-haul and short-haul routes and are primarily due to a shortage of flight crew, exacerbated by ongoing labour negotiations.
In response to the pilot shortage, airlines are launching and expanding training programs to attract new talent:
Qantas Group: The Qantas Group Pilot Academy in Toowoomba, Queensland, offers comprehensive training for aspiring pilots, including pathways to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MEIR), and Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory. The academy also provides scholarships aimed at increasing diversity within the aviation industry, particularly supporting women and Indigenous Australians.
British Airways: The Speedbird Pilot Academy offers fully funded training to selected candidates, aiming to diversify the pilot workforce.
TUI Airways: A fully funded 18-month Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) cadet program covers all training expenses, including accommodation and medical certification.
Virgin Atlantic: The Future Flyers Programme, in partnership with L3 Airline Academy, provides tailored training for candidates to operate A330 aircraft.
Aer Lingus: The Future Pilot Programme is a fully sponsored 14-month training course, aiming to develop 90 pilots over five years.
Air France: The Cadet Pilot Program offers fully funded training, with applications open from June 2 to July 15, 2025.
With airlines investing heavily in training programs and offering financial support, now is an opportune time for individuals considering a career in aviation. The demand for skilled pilots is projected to remain high for the foreseeable future, making it a promising profession for those entering the field.
