The Decline of Commercial Pilot Training Initiatives in Zambia: Considering the Impending Global Pilot Shortage

Abstract

This research presents a critical analysis of the commercial pilot training opportunities in Zambia, focusing on the challenges encountered by the sector in looming world pilot shortage. There is concern on how the experience of Approved Training Organizations (ATOs) would be beneficial in meeting the demand for pilots in the civil and commercial aviation sectors. This study investigates the extent of government support for pilot training policy, the essential minimum criteria for pilot training, the qualifications of Approved Training Organization(ATO) holders in managing pilot training, and the existing defects in aviation training management. Over the course of the next decade, the global aviation industry has expectations to witness a notable increase in both passenger numbers and revenue, with a particularly rapid growth already observed in emerging nations. The potential impact of the Middle East on global traffic development necessitates substantial infrastructural enhancements of which major regional airlines have placed orders for almost 1,000 aircraft. According to Greenbank (2022), Boeing's projections state that there is expected to be a sustained need for commercial aircraft pilots and technicians over the next two decades, with the Asia Pacific region anticipated to exhibit the highest need. The European aviation industry now employs a significant number of individuals, with over 95,000 pilots and 101,000 technicians. These figures highlight the demand for skilled professionals in the field of aviation throughout the world. Based on estimations, the need for pilots in Russia is projected to reach 17,000, while the requirement for technicians is anticipated to be 22,000. This research aims to provide information to enhance the training of Zambian civil aviation pilots by addressing the challenges encountered in the existing flight training schools. The expansion of the global economy (Greenbank ,2022) has led to a rise in travel opportunities, which has projected the need on the procurement of around 38,000 passenger aircraft over the forthcoming two decades. According to Boeing, it is anticipated that a total of 32,600 aircraft would be manufactured by the company by the year 2034. Boeing places emphasis on the expansion of its pilot team and the attrition of its modern aircraft fleet, resulting in an increased demand for skilled pilots.