The FlightGlobal Pilot Survey 2022

In the dynamic world of aviation, change is the only constant. The aviation industry has faced numerous challenges over the years, but perhaps none as profound as the COVID-19 pandemic. Two years into the crisis, we conducted the FlightGlobal Pilot Survey in collaboration with the specialist aviation recruitment agency Goose to gain valuable insights into the current state of the aviation industry, pilot perspectives, and the path to recovery.

The State of Aviation: A Glimpse into the Survey

The Pilot Survey carried out in the final quarter of 2021, questioned 1,743 professional pilots worldwide. These individuals are critical in connecting with the world, but the pandemic profoundly impacted their careers.

Job Prospects and Optimism

At the height of the crisis in 2020, the aviation industry faced unprecedented challenges. However, the 2022 survey indicates a positive shift. Job prospects and optimism among pilots have improved significantly, with 62% of respondents reporting being "employed and currently flying." This marks a substantial increase from just 43% a year ago.

Regional Disparities

While the global outlook is improving, regional disparities persist. In Europe, the employment and flying rate matches the global average, but in Asia-Pacific (excluding China), where many borders remain closed, only 53% of pilots are currently flying. Conversely, North America, particularly the USA, has seen a robust domestic sector, with 81% of pilots actively flying.

Ongoing Challenges

The aviation industry still grapples with border closures, quarantine rules, and other measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. These ongoing challenges continue to hinder a full recovery.

Returning to the Cockpit

For some pilots, the prospect of returning to the cockpit is uncertain. Approximately 24% of unemployed pilots express "no confidence" in their return to flying, with higher rates in North America (40%) and Europe (28%).

Mandatory Vaccinations

Mandatory vaccinations have emerged as a controversial issue. While 68% of surveyed pilots believe that double vaccinations should be compulsory for all pilots, regional variations exist. In North America, only 57% support mandatory vaccinations.

Job Security

Despite optimism about the industry's recovery, 61% of pilots still express concerns about job security. This, however, represents a significant improvement from the previous year when 82% were worried.

Considering Job Changes

Interestingly, more pilots (56%) are considering changing jobs in the next 12 months compared to the previous year (54%). This shift could indicate an improving job market and potential dissatisfaction with current employers.

The Complexities of a Pilot's Life

While the survey brings to light many positive changes, there is an undercurrent of cynicism and hopelessness within the profession. A considerable 37% of pilots express that they would not choose the same career path if given a second chance.

Furthermore, most (55%) surveyed pilots would not recommend their careers to young people. This represents a significant increase from just 29% who responded similarly two years ago, before the pandemic.

Optimism and the Path Ahead

Despite the challenges and uncertainties, pilots have a notable sense of optimism. Sixty per cent believe the aviation sector will fully recover to pre-pandemic levels within one or two years, with an additional 23% projecting a recovery within 12 months. In contrast, only 6% believe "it will never be the same again."

Anticipating Future Challenges

Pilots were also asked about their views on the future of pilot employment. An astonishing 85% believe there will be a shortage of experienced pilots within five years, up from 43% in 2021. Additionally, 28% anticipate an absence of all pilots within that timeframe, compared to 23% last time.

Conclusion

The FlightGlobal Pilot Survey 2022 provides a comprehensive snapshot of the aviation industry's current status. While there are lingering challenges and reservations among pilots, there is also a strong sense of resilience and hope for a brighter future.

As we navigate these uncertain skies, the insights from this survey will serve as a compass, guiding the industry toward a full recovery and ensuring that aviation continues to play a vital role in connecting people and places worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FlightGlobal Pilot Survey?

The FlightGlobal Pilot Survey is an annual survey conducted by FlightGlobal in partnership with Goose, a specialist aviation recruitment agency. It gathers insights from professional pilots about their work status, attitudes toward their careers, and the aviation industry's current state.

What are the key findings of the 2022 Pilot Survey?

Some key findings include improved job prospects and optimism among pilots, regional disparities in employment rates, ongoing challenges due to COVID-19, and varying opinions on mandatory vaccinations. Additionally, the profession has a sense of uncertainty and cynicism, with most pilots not recommending it to young people.

How do pilots feel about the future of the aviation industry?

Despite the challenges, many pilots are optimistic about the industry's recovery. Sixty per cent believe the sector will fully recover to pre-pandemic levels within one or two years.

What do pilots think about job security?

While concerns about job security still exist, there has been a significant improvement from the previous year, with 61% expressing concern compared to 82% in the past.

What are the anticipated challenges in pilot employment?

A growing number of pilots believe there will be a shortage of experienced pilots in the coming years, with 85% expecting this scenario within five years. Additionally, 28% foresee a shortage of all pilots within that timeframe. These numbers have increased since the previous survey in 2021.