CHINA AVIATION EDUCATION PILOT TRAINING

Fueled by surging air travel demand due to the country’s expanding middle class and an increasing number of general aviation and commercial aircraft fleets, China is emerging as one of the world’s largest markets for pilot training. According to a market forecast from one of the world’s leading aviation companies, China is projected to need approximately 130,000 commercial and general aviation pilots by 2043 to meet this growing demand.
 

With the domestic aviation market quickly rebounding from the disruptions caused by COVID-19, China is expected to encounter increased pilot shortages. This shortage is exacerbated by limited admissions capacity in China’s pilot schools and restrictions on domestic airspace, prompting Chinese airlines to seek training opportunities abroad, primarily to the United States, Canada, and Australia. However, in recent years, the country has seen a growing trend toward localizing pilot training programs to reduce costs, which has led to the establishment of joint-venture training centers across China by industry leaders from around the world.

Looking beyond commercial aviation, China’s general aviation sector is also generating substantial demand for pilots. Industry experts forecast that China’s general aviation fleet will grow to approximately 45,000 aircraft by 2040, driven by increased demand for business jets, personal aircraft, and utility operations. According to the Asian Sky Group – one of the world’s largest aircraft dealers – 65 percent of China’s general aviation fleet is dedicated to flight training, underlining the critical role of this segment in China’s pilot training market.

These unique industry trends and developments present significant opportunities for U.S. companies specializing in pilot training solutions. Flight training academies offering structured training programs and high-quality curriculum and equipment manufacturers, such as simulator providers and piston-engine airplane manufacturers, are well-positioned to tap into this growing market. Additionally, partnerships with Chinese institutions to establish joint training programs has been a common market entry strategy for some foreign companies in the sector. 

For more information, please contact Office.Guangzhou@trade.gov.