Boeing invests around US$1 million in pilot training scholarships

MEXICO CITY - Boeing announced an investment of nearly US$950,000 in pilot training scholarships to meet growing demand while boosting diversity in the industry.

Of this investment, US$500,000 will be used to fund 25 scholarships in partnership with five aviation organizations, including the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the Latin Pilots Association, to provide training opportunities for aspiring pilots from diverse backgrounds.

In addition, Boeing will allocate US$450,000 to the Los Angeles-based nonprofit Fly Compton to provide aerospace career opportunities for minority youth in an effort to reduce barriers to entry into the industry.

Ziad Ojakli, executive vice president of Boeing Government Operations, noted that demand for qualified, diverse pilots remains high at airlines around the world, and that access to training continues to be a barrier for many applicants.

Boeing has forecasted that approximately 602,000 new pilots will be needed over the next 20 years to maintain the world's commercial fleet. With this investment in scholarships and training programs, the company seeks to foster a next generation of pilots and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry.

Boeing has forecasted that approximately 602,000 new pilots will be needed over the next 20 years to maintain the world's commercial fleet. With this investment in scholarships and training programs, the company seeks to foster a next generation of pilots and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry.

It is worth mentioning that, since 2019, Boeing has allocated more than US$8.5 million for pilot training programs in underrepresented communities across the United States. This initiative seeks to promote opportunities for women and people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging their entry and growth in the pilot profession and, thus, strengthening diversity in the aerospace sector.