In-depth study of the pilot shortage and its consequences
Abstract
In the recent years, the term "pilot shortage" has become a common vocabulary added to the aviation dictionary. Airlines, aviation economists, aviation consultants, and aviation authors have warned of a pilot shortage, that is not looming but one that has already settled in. Many airlines such as Republic have already begun to feel the effect of the pilot shortage, as other airlines are trying to come up with solutions to mitigate it. Despite this, there is controversy on whether the pilot shortage is really true or if it is just another mere myth. This Honors thesis aims to demystify what the pilot shortage is, and explain whether the shortage is true or not. Furthermore, this thesis will explore what factors caused the pilot shortage and what continues to trigger the development of the shortage. In addition, the thesis will expose the effect that the pilot shortage has had on the airlines, the pilots, and the U.S. economy at large. More importantly, this thesis will analyze the current solutions being put in place to lessen the effects of the pilot shortage, and whether these solutions are effective or not. In conclusion, I will give suggestions and recommendations on solutions that I think will diminish the growing pilot shortage. That is, this thesis seeks to answer the following questions: (1) What is the definition and scope of pilot shortage (Is the Pilot Shortage really true)? (2) What factors brought about the shortage and continue to engender its progression? (3) What are the effects of the pilot shortage on airlines, pilots and on the U.S. economy? (4) What solutions have been put in place to mitigate the pilot shortage; are they effective or not? (5) What better solutions could be implemented (Conclusion and Recommendations)?