Middle Eastern airlines will need an estimated 10,300 additional pilots by 2030, marking the largest projected shortage of any region globally, according to Oliver Wyman’s 2025 Flight Operations Brief. While pilot deficits in North America and Europe are easing, the consultancy warns the Middle East is the only market where demand continues to outpace supply.

The shortfall reflects the region’s rapid fleet expansion, particularly among Gulf carriers, which is expected to intensify competition for skilled aviators. Traditionally reliant on overseas talent pools, airlines face mounting challenges in sustaining recruitment from mature markets with tightening pilot availability.

The report notes that carriers are likely to maintain incentives such as tax-free pay packages and opportunities to fly wide-body aircraft to attract foreign crew. However, it emphasizes the need for long-term solutions, including developing local training pipelines to reduce reliance on expatriates.

“The Middle East faces a unique challenge: airlines are growing faster than the available pilot workforce,” said André Martins, Head of Transportation and Advance Industrials for India, the Middle East, and Africa at Oliver Wyman. 

“With more than 10,000 pilots needed by 2030, carriers will have to think differently about sourcing, training, and retaining talent. Solutions such as localized training pipelines, advanced simulation, and innovative career pathways will be critical to sustaining growth.”

The study also identifies shifting workforce expectations, particularly among younger pilots who increasingly prioritize work-life balance and schedule flexibility over traditional compensation and promotion models. 

Rising labor costs and evolving work rules are adding financial pressures, prompting airlines to rethink workforce planning and scheduling strategies.

Advances in virtual and augmented-reality-based training, alongside data-driven safety systems, are cited as opportunities to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The report calls for deeper investment in regional pilot-training infrastructure to support sustainable long-term growth in the Middle East’s aviation workforce.