I think its time to separate FACT from FICTION regarding this LAUGHABLE notion of a pilot shortage. Widespread talk of pilot shortages always mean we at the top of an economic cycle.

A little history:

When I started flying in 1986 there was talk of a looming pilot shortage. By 1990 jobs were scarce at best.

In 2000-2001 everyone was again talking shortages. Sadly, the horrific events of 9/11 coincided with an already maturing economic cycle and huge furloughs ensued.

As recently as spring/summer 2007 pilot shortage talk was at an all time high. Now less than 1 year later airlines are dying like flies and furloughs are again rearing their ugly heads. Sadly, the age 65 debacle will mean that the pilot community will take longer to recover than the general economy will this time.

So when things turn around as they eventually will, please let's don't talk about any pilot shortages.