Congress proposing legislation to tackle nationwide pilot shortage, local universities weigh in
DELMARVA -“The more young people that choose to go into this career field, the more they can fly some of those aircrafts that are being parked,” Lt. Hales said.
Congress is on a mission to do just that with recently introducing the Advancing Inclusion and Representation in the Workforce of Aviation and Transportation System (AIRWAYS) Act . The bill would create a new grant program focused on supporting the education, recruitment, and workforce development to address the nationwide pilot shortage.
It’s also helps build out existing programs at institutions like Delaware State University. “We still believe that the degree is very, very important even though many airlines have not made it mandatory to have a four-year degree,” DSU Aviation Program Director Lieutenant Colonel Michael Hales said.
DSU is just one of 7 HBCU’s who offer an aviation program. Lt. Hales says they’ve actually seen a growing number of students interested in the field. Yet, he says these programs can be quite expensive which can impact retention. “Having access to be able to borrow money or receive financial aid that perhaps comes in the form of a grant and then you don’t have to pay it back,” Lt. Hales said.
On top of that, Lt. Hales says they’re in desperate need of talent to teach. “The FAA of course mandates that they have to have a certain amount of experience in hours as well as years of holding that certificate themselves. That’s hard to come by because everybody is going to the airlines or the professional jobs,” Lt. Hales.
The bill also looks to grow the presence of underserved populations in aviation which includes people of color. It’s something Lt. Hales says is crucial. “Our goal is that when you get on an airplane you see a black or brown skin person at the set of controls whether it’s a first officer or a captain,” Lt. Hales said.
Lt. Hales also 47ABC many airlines are looking at students as early as their freshman year to establish long-term relationships. He says that often times leads to funding opportunities for students with some sort of commitment to that organization.
DSU says pay is now at an all-time high in the industry which can also be a selling point for students. We’re told most pilot salaries start in the six figures.
Lt. Hales says he anticipates the shortage lingering for upwards of 20 years. He says the military is also reporting shortages over the next several years which could become a national security issue.
