A seasoned helicopter pilot, Okechukwu Onuchukwu, has stressed the need for the enhancement of pilot training pipelines, outlining several strategies to address the issue and ensure a sustainable future for the aviation industry.

Onuchukwu made this observation during an interview with The PUNCH correspondent against the backdrop of the aviation industry grappling with a growing shortage of pilots.

He noted that to tackle the menace, a public-private partnership must be formed to assist pilots in getting prerequisite training in and outside the country.

He said, “One of the key recommendations to alleviate the pilot shortage is improving the training pipeline. Private operators have long been at the forefront of sponsoring pilot training programmes, particularly in the rotary-wing sector. Notable operators like Aero Contractors and Bristow.

“Helicopters have championed these initiatives. Onuchukwu himself was a beneficiary of Bristow’s comprehensive pilot training programme, which included local training at the International Helicopter Flying School in Ilorin, Kwara State, and advanced training in Florida, USA, during the 2014-2015 period.”

He also called for improvement in career incentives to attract more individuals to pursue a career in aviation.

He noted, “Competitive compensation packages, housing allowances, travel packs, and clear career progression pathways are essential to making pilot careers more appealing.

“Additionally, creating flexible work schedules and reducing fatigue-inducing work conditions would promote a healthier work-life balance, an area where the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has already made strides with existing regulations.”

Onuchukwu also highlighted the need to attract a more diverse pool of candidates.

“While the number of women in pilot roles has steadily increased, achieving gender parity requires greater outreach to the girl child and more initiatives to encourage young women to pursue aviation careers,” he said.

He campaigned for aviation-focused programmes in schools, the hosting of aviation camps, and mentorship programmes to inspire the next generation of pilots.

“To address the retention of experienced pilots, Onuchukwu proposes the introduction of loyalty bonuses, comprehensive insurance packages, and company-funded employee savings plans. In addition, robust support systems should be put in place to ensure pilots have access to mental health resources and adequate rest periods, which are critical to preventing burnout and ensuring long-term productivity.”