Action is needed to address a pilot and aviation engineer workforce gaps based on research commissioned by Ringa Hora and the Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand (AIANZ). 

The research indicated a relatively sizeable gap between supply and demand of aviation workforce – especially for pilot and engineering roles. 

The challenge not only relates to the number of people needed for the industry, but also the make-up of the workforce. When last surveyed, 93% of the pilot workforce was male, and 85% of pilots were of European ethnicity. 

“What the research shows is that the status quo isn’t a sustainable option,” Ringa Hora Strategy and Advice manager Leo Shen says. 

“We need to find ways to ease the pathways of someone pursuing a career in aviation. The high cost of training presents a significant barrier to entry for many, but the cost is only part of the story.  

“The complexity and rigidness of the industry meant that it will take collective action from everyone in the industry – employers, providers, and others – to help respond to these workforce challenges”.  

In addition to the research, Ringa Hora has been focusing on widening the talent pool by encouraging greater diversity within the aviation industry.  

Ringa Hora held two targeted aviation events this year, a Kaupapa Māori aviation hui in Tauranga in May, and an aviation talanoa for Pacific people in Auckland in June. Both events were first of their kind and were well attended by key industry leaders. A summary of the findings from these events can be found here for the Kaupapa Māori hui and here for the Pacific aviation talanoa.  

Ringa Hora will continue to work with AIANZ and the relevant agencies and industry representatives to explore options in responding to the challenges signalled in the research. 

Ringa Hora has already met with the Ministry of Education about the issue and is seeking to meet with Ministry of Transport officials to discuss possible ideas moving forward. 

To view the research please click here.