Originally Posted by
AirBear
For those entering the industry via the regional airlines. There are some big changes coming. I've seen some well researched numbers on pilot hiring in 2022. Here's what is estimated:
For all the B737/A320 and larger size aircraft operators: Estimated number of pilots needed AFTER allowing for military, Part 135, and Corporate: 9,000
Total number of Regional Airline Pilots: 20,000
Something has to give. Either Regional Airlines will have to consolidate, or be folded into mainline (not going to happen quickly if at all), or mainline will have to curtail hiring plans and as a result cut back schedules. As some on this thread have already stated, with insufficient pilots the 50 seaters will probably windup on the used airliners lot. RJ Captains will especially be in short supply. This is why Airline Exec's are crying about the 1500 hour rule. That's shortsighted because lowering that will cannibalize many CFI's and then who's left to teach new pilots?
As much as I can’t stand the guy, as long as Chuck Schumer is around, the 1500 hour rule will be too. That was his “baby” and his response to the Colgan crash families. His pride alone wouldn’t let the rule die.