Airbus says it is set to more than double its fleet of jets in the next 20 years, which will create a need for 550,000 new pilots and 640,000 technicians.
The global aerospace giant has offices across the UK and two large design and production sites in the country - in Filton, Bristol, and in Broughton, North Wales.
The planemaker says it expects its passenger and freighter fleet will grow from nearly 23,000 to 47,680 by 2038. Of these, 39,210 will be new jets, while 8,470 will remain from today.
Airbus also says it believes the aviation sector can decarbonise to achieve carbon neutral growth targets while still flying more people.
"Developments in superior fuel efficiency are further driving demand to replace existing less fuel efficient aircraft," explained Christian Scherer, Airbus’ chief commercial officer and head of Airbus International.
“The four per cent annual growth reflects the resilient nature of aviation, weathering short term economic shocks and geo-political disturbances. Economies thrive on air transportation. People and goods want to connect.
“Globally, commercial aviation stimulates GDP growth and supports 65 million livelyhoods, demonstrating the immense benefits our business brings to all societies and global trade.”
Just this week the aircraft maker announced it has taken on a record number of new apprentices at its Filton and Broughton sites – surpassing even last year’s bumper total.
A total of 155 apprentices joined the aerospace company’s site in North Wales, with a further 37 starting at its Filton base.
In addition, Airbus’ graduate programme welcomed 46 new trainee appointments in Filton and 16 in Broughton.
