Boeing has released its 2018 Pilot & Technician Outlook, projecting demand for 790,000 pilots over the next 20 years.

According to the aerospace company and manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems, despite the commercial pilot demand forecast, maintenance technician demand decreased slightly from 648,000 to 622,000, primarily due to longer maintenance intervals for new aircraft.

Collectively, the business aviation and civil helicopter sectors will demand an additional 155,000 pilots and 132,000 technicians.

"Despite strong global air traffic growth, the aviation industry continues to face a pilot labor supply challenge, raising concern about the existence of a global pilot shortage in the near-term," said Keith Cooper, vice president of Training & Professional Services, Boeing Global Services.

"An emphasis on developing the next generation of pilots is key to help mitigate this. With a network of training campuses and relationships with flight schools around the globe, Boeing partners with customers, governments, and educational institutions to help ensure the market is ready to meet this significant pilot demand."

Boeing's Pilot Development Program helps operators meet their growing pilot needs. Boeing also helps operators improve crew efficiency with tools that optimize resources and minimize disruption.

For more information about the Pilot & Technician Outlook, please visit: https://www.boeing.com/commercial/market