Aviation Industry Growth Highlights Workforce Challenges

By the Numbers

• Global aircraft fleet expected to double in 20 years

• Estimated retirements in aviation maintenance workforce: 35%+ within the next decade

• Technicians needed globally over the next 20 years: 700,000+

As 2025 draws to a close, the aviation industry continues to show strong signs of recovery and expansion. Fleet utilization has remained high throughout the year, and maintenance demand across both commercial and business aviation sectors has continued to grow.

According to Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook, the global aircraft fleet is expected to double over the next 20 years, driven by rising passenger demand and expanding air cargo operations. While this growth presents significant opportunities across the aviation ecosystem, it also places increasing pressure on the maintenance workforce responsible for keeping those aircraft operational.

Maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities have experienced steady workloads throughout 2025, with many programs operating near capacity. At the same time, workforce availability continues to be one of the most commonly cited operational challenges across the industry.

Industry data shows that a large portion of today’s certified aviation technicians are approaching retirement age. Workforce studies estimate that more than one-third of the current aviation maintenance workforce could retire within the next decade, creating additional pressure on technician pipelines.

While aviation training programs continue producing new talent, experience remains one of the most valuable assets inside maintenance environments. Experienced technicians often serve as both technical resources and mentors, helping guide younger technicians entering the field.

For aviation organizations, maintaining operational continuity in this environment requires a balance of workforce development, long-term planning, and reliable staffing resources.

Many operators are increasingly relying on workforce partnerships to help maintain stability across maintenance programs. By maintaining access to experienced technicians who can support projects when demand increases, facilities can keep programs moving while continuing to develop internal teams.

For more than two decades, APA Aviation Staffing, LLC has worked alongside aviation operators to support workforce continuity across maintenance operations nationwide.

As the industry prepares for continued growth in the years ahead, maintaining a strong, experienced workforce will remain one of aviation’s most important priorities.

APA Aviation Staffing, LLC supports aviation operators nationwide with workforce solutions designed to maintain continuity, stability, and operational momentum.