Pilot training in 2024: delays, AI, and sustainability

The aviation industry faced a turbulent year in 2024, marked by not only technological innovation and ongoing sustainability demands but also major operational disruptions. Pilot training, one of the cornerstones of the industry, had to adapt to the challenges and opportunities accordingly. But what do these changes experienced in 2024 mean for the industry’s long-term readiness? How are training organizations and airlines adapting to keep pace?

Boeing and Airbus delivery delays: A silver lining for pilot training?

The aviation sector was hit hard by continued delays in aircraft deliveries from Boeing and Airbus, with delivery schedules running 30% below expected targets. According to IATA, the backlog for new aircraft has reached a record 17,000 planes, translating to an astounding 14-year wait at current production rates. The disruption of such scale has led airlines to rely heavily on dry and wet leasing instead, creating a ripple effect in pilot training programs.

“For airlines, delivery delays have thrown a wrench into long-term training plans,” said Martynas Mazeika, Chief Sales Officer at BAA Training, a leader in aviation training solutions. “The unpredictability makes it challenging for them to plan pilot training in line with operational needs. Investment in new training devices, too, remains uncertain, but outsourcing training on an as-needed basis has become the practical solution this year.”

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