Rotorcraft
HFI Forecast Spotlights Deepening Pilot and Mechanic Shortage
The forecast sees a shortage of 7,649 helicopter pilots in the U.S. by 2036.
Now more than ever, youth are the future. Attracting them to careers in aviation isn't just about the industry's ability to add a few more customers. Instead, it's about using aircraft as tools to help them realize their dreams as pilots, engineers, technicians, and even firefighters.
Now more than ever, youth are the future. Attracting them to careers in aviation isn't just about the industry's ability to add a few more customers. Instead, it's about using aircraft as tools to help them realize their dreams as pilots, engineers, technicians, and even firefighters.

Mounting evidence shows there is a real shortage of pilots and mechanics, and this is especially true for the rotorcraft industry, according to a study conducted by the University of North Dakota (UND) in partnership with Helicopter Foundation International (HFI) and HAI. They delivered the results of the study, “UND-HAI Rotorcraft Pilot and Mechanic Supply Forecast,” on Wednesday at Heli-Expo 2018. The goal of the study was to quantify the helicopter pilot and mechanic shortage over the next 20 years.