SURVEY: Half of APAC pilots eyeing job moves

A new report from AeroProfessional, an aviation recruitment consultancy, reveals that almost half of commercial pilots in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region are actively considering a job change, as pay levels lag behind global benchmarks and airlines increasingly rely on flexible workforce models to meet market demand. The research findings, from AeroProfessional’s 2025 Global Pilot Salary & Market Insights Report, provide a data-driven look at how APAC-based commercial pilots compare to their counterparts in other regions across the globe in pay, working patterns, and job sentiment. The report highlights the challenges that APAC airlines are facing in retaining experienced crew in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. According to its survey of commercial pilots across the globe, AeroProfessional has found that 48.4% of pilots in the APAC region are actively considering a job change in the next six months. This is higher than Europe (33.4%), the Middle East (29.7%), and the UK (29.0%), suggesting lower levels of job satisfaction and loyalty among pilots in the APAC region. The research also identifies notable disparities in pay compared with global averages. Boeing 737 Captains in APAC earn on average 15.8% below the global benchmark, while Airbus A320 First Officers earn 23.0% below the worldwide average. These figures indicate that regional market pressures and airline budget constraints may contribute to lower base salaries for pilots in APAC, even as demand for qualified flight crew remains strong. Employment models in APAC also differ from other regions, with nearly one in five pilots (18%) working on a contractor basis, compared with just 6.2% in the UK and 5.4% in North America. This higher use of flexible contracting arrangements reflects the operational strategies of airlines in the region, allowing adaptability to seasonal trends and rapid capacity growth. But despite the increased choice and varied career opportunities this represents to pilots, it could also be seen as a contributing factor to workforce turnover and  mobility in the region. Sam Sprules, Managing Director at AeroProfessional, said: “APAC pilots are operating in one of the most dynamic regions in aviation, where flexible employment structures and strong demand for talent are reshaping traditional workforce models. Airlines that balance competitive  compensation with clear pathways for stability and progression will be best placed to retain skilled pilots and strengthen operational resilience.” Avion Express offers 250 open positions for pilots worldwide Avion Express, a provider of narrow-body ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services and part of Avia Solutions Group, is announcing 250 new pilot positions available worldwide for commercial pilots holding either EASA or ICAO licenses. This announcement is part of the annual recruitment season. A particular focus this year will be placed on Latin America, including Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and other countries. According to Kristina Mateikaite-Riepsiene, Head of Crew Recruitment at Avion Express, the company’s global network and the specifics of ACMI operations offer valuable opportunities for professional pilots seeking diverse flying experience. “What we hear from pilots who fly with us about the ACMI model is that it’s a perfect environment to build strong skills and advance their careers. Firstly, we have partnerships with many global airlines, which means pilots have the opportunity to take off from different airports, fly various routes, and gain valuable experience that is highly beneficial for their future careers. For ICAO license holders, ACMI is also an excellent place to start the license conversion process if they wish to do so, as the company provides strong support throughout the process. Additionally, working with colleagues of different nationalities helps our pilots grow personally and integrate easily into a diverse community,” says Kristina Mateikaite-Riepsiene, emphasising that it’s essential for pilots to understand the unique nature of the ACMI model, which is a perfect fit for those who prefer this kind of lifestyle and work–life balance. The ACMI service provider is currently seeking Captains and First Officers for this operational season. Avion Express is the largest ACMI operator worldwide by number of flights. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]