My bad, the article said 3000 last year, left a zero off. It was in a magazine that was left by another pilot so I do not remember which one. I have no verification of that number though. that's why I stated "if that holds"
last numbers I could find in a quick search was 2011 data 8559 Commercials and 4677 ATP's.

My airline alone loses at least 1400 in the next 7 years. Currently we have 800+ over 60 now. Causing issues on the international flights with the over 60 pairings and bidding.

With 172 rental rates going at $150 to $200 an hour minus instructor and avgas at 8 bucks a gallon in many places I can how the 3000 number could be accurate.