Can a foreign pilot take advantage of the US pilot shortage

The ongoing pilot shortage in the United States is opening doors for qualified pilots from overseas. During a Senate hearing on airline industry oversight, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby revealed that over 100 aircraft are grounded due to a lack of available pilots.

“There has been a looming pilot shortage for the last decade in the United States, and going through COVID, it became an actual pilot shortage,” Kirby told senators on December 15. Top executives from American, Southwest, and Delta echoed similar concerns.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that commercial airline pilots earn an average salary of $130,000 per year, with experienced captains at major airlines earning $180,000 to over $350,000 annually.

Industry forecasts are sounding the alarm. Boeing estimates the need for 612,000 new pilots globally in the next 20 years—412,000 in the Americas alone. Consulting firm Oliver Wyman predicts a shortfall of 12,000 U.S. pilots by 2023, and possibly up to 50,000 globally by 2025.

The shortage is driven by high training costs, lack of new entrants, and mandatory retirements at age 65. For foreign pilots, especially those with FAA-equivalent credentials, the U.S. offers high-paying, in-demand roles—making now an ideal time to explore opportunities to fly in America.

The ongoing pilot shortage in the United States is opening doors for qualified pilots from overseas. During a Senate hearing on airline industry oversight, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby revealed that over 100 aircraft are grounded due to a lack of available pilots.

“There has been a looming pilot shortage for the last decade in the United States, and going through COVID, it became an actual pilot shortage,” Kirby told senators on December 15. Top executives from American, Southwest, and Delta echoed similar concerns.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that commercial airline pilots earn an average salary of $130,000 per year, with experienced captains at major airlines earning $180,000 to over $350,000 annually.

Industry forecasts are sounding the alarm. Boeing estimates the need for 612,000 new pilots globally in the next 20 years—412,000 in the Americas alone. Consulting firm Oliver Wyman predicts a shortfall of 12,000 U.S. pilots by 2023, and possibly up to 50,000 globally by 2025.

The shortage is driven by high training costs, lack of new entrants, and mandatory retirements at age 65. For foreign pilots, especially those with FAA-equivalent credentials, the U.S. offers high-paying, in-demand roles—making now an ideal time to explore opportunities to fly in America.

How Can Foreign Pilots Work in the U.S.?

Foreign pilots interested in flying for U.S. carriers must follow several steps to qualify:

1. Convert Your License: Non-U.S. licenses must be validated by the FAA. This usually involves submitting documentation, passing knowledge exams, and completing checkrides with FAA-designated examiners.

2. Secure FAA Medical Certification: A valid FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate is required for airline transport pilots.

3. Get FAA Ratings: If necessary, additional FAA ratings (e.g., instrument, multi-engine, type ratings) may need to be earned.

4. Visa Sponsorship: U.S. employers must sponsor the appropriate work visa, usually an H-1B or E-3 (for Australians). Some regional carriers or corporate operators may assist with this process.

5. Meet Minimum Flight Hours: Most airlines require 1,500 total flight hours, but this can vary. Some international training and military experience may count.

6. Designate a U.S. Agent: Under 14 CFR 3.303, all foreign FAA certificate holders must have a U.S.-based address or agent for service, such as AeroServe, to remain compliant.

With proper certification and legal preparation, skilled foreign pilots are well-positioned to meet the growing demand in the U.S. aviation industry.