Is Now a Good Time to Become a Pilot?
With the COVID-19 pandemic having subsided in most parts of the world, the aviation industry is already booming once again. However, there has been a growing shortage of pilots in recent years, one that is expected to peak in the coming years in the United States with the current crop of pilots nearing retirement age.
The 2012 Investigation of the United States Airline Pilot Labor Supply predicted that the pilot shortage in the United States could rise to as high as 35,000 by 2031. But given recent unprecedented events like the COVID-19 pandemic, the number could increase dramatically. Boeing also recently predicted that the global pilot demand could reach nearly 800,000 by 2040.
What Has Caused the Ongoing Pilot Shortage?
The pilot shortage has been looming for over a decade and can be traced back to the post-9/11 period and the Great Recession. Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the aviation industry took a major hit as air travel decreased significantly. Then came the Great Recession of 2008, which resulted in an even larger decrease in air travel and put many airlines in danger of bankruptcy. In response to these dire circumstances, airlines began making major cuts to their workforce, including pilots. This led to a dramatic decrease in the number of pilot trainees in the years that followed, which has largely contributed to the current pilot shortage.
More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the pilot shortage problem as most airlines were forced to make further cuts to their workforce to stay afloat. While the aviation industry is slowly recovering, the pilot shortage has become a glaring crisis.
What Does This Mean for Aspiring Pilots?
The ongoing pilot shortage presents a unique opportunity for those aspiring to pursue a career in aviation. Not only are there a growing number of job openings for pilots, but airlines are also offering more attractive salaries and benefits to lure in new talent. This is where the UND Aerospace Foundation comes into the picture. The UND Aerospace Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers comprehensive FAA-approved pilot training programs to prepare students for a successful aviation career. At UND Phoenix Flight Training Center, our mission is to provide the highest quality flight training and nurture the next generation of world-class pilots.
Why Join Our Flight School in Mesa?
Based in sunny Arizona, dubbed the mecca of flight training in the US, our Phoenix Flight Training Center offers a one-of-a-kind pilot training environment. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider joining the UND Aerospace Foundation:
Good Weather All Year Round
Bad weather can be a major obstacle when it comes to flight training. Luckily, Arizona is known for its sunny weather and mild winters, which allows for more consistent training with little to no interruptions. This not only facilitates a more efficient learning process but also saves you time and money in the long run.
Diverse Terrain
Our strategic location at Phoenix Mesa-Gateway Airport also allows our students to experience Arizona's diverse terrain, which includes mountain ranges, rivers, oceans, and forests, providing a great playground for student pilots to hone their skills.
Stunning Views
In addition to the great weather and diverse terrain, Arizona is home to some of the most stunning views in the country. From the red rocks of Sedona to the Grand Canyon, student pilots will get to experience firsthand the beauty of flying in Arizona.
Modern Training Facilities and Aircraft
UND Phoenix Flight Training Center is equipped with modern training facilities and aircraft, which provide students with the best possible learning experience. Our state-of-the-art simulator lab features the latest in flight simulation technology, while our well-maintained fleet of aircraft includes both single- and multi-engine planes.
Unique Curriculum
As an internationally-acclaimed center for collegiate flight training, we are committed to offering comprehensive pilot training under FAA Part 141 and Part 61 regulations. We have a unique curriculum developed in collaboration with top industry-leading airlines, Boeing, the FAA, and world-class airline pilots. This has enabled us to consistently produce highly-qualified, safety-conscious pilots who are highly sought-after throughout the world.
Personalized Training
Our team of highly-qualified flight instructors is committed to providing each student with the individualized attention and support they need to meet their flight training goals. Whether you're looking to join our accelerated private pilot training program or want to earn a commercial pilot license our curriculum is designed to meet your specific needs and objectives.
Sign Up With UND Aerospace Foundation Today!
With the demand for qualified pilots expected to continue into the foreseeable future, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in aviation. And UND Aerospace Foundation is here to provide you with the professional training and guidance you need to enjoy a successful aviation career. Sign up with UND Aerospace Foundation today to begin your flight training at one of the top 10 busiest Class D airports in the United States.
