Airline Recruitment Gains Momentum After Post-Pandemic Slowdown
After a post-pandemic slowdown, pilot hiring is gaining momentum heading into 2026, according to data from flight training providers, pilot recruiting firms, and industry groups. Airlines such as American, United, and Delta are expected to hire thousands of pilots in 2026, driven by mandatory retirements and long-term growth. The trend is not limited to the US, as global airlines continue to recruit at a steady pace. This shift in the market is reported by AeroTime, indicating a more measured but still active phase of hiring.