U.S. airlines slow hiring after adding 194,000 jobs post-Covid

Since 2021, U.S. passenger airlines have added nearly 194,000 jobs as they recovered from the pandemic's impact. However, the hiring pace has slowed due to various challenges, including moderated demand growth and delays in aircraft deliveries from manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. This has led airlines to reassess their expansion plans and staffing needs. Some airlines, such as Southwest and United, have announced reductions in their hiring targets and paused recruitment for certain positions, including pilots and flight attendants. The industry is grappling with a shortage of engines and has seen some carriers defer airplane deliveries. Southwest Airlines anticipates a reduction of 2,000 employees by the end of the year, while United Airlines has scaled back its hiring plans from 15,000 to 10,000 employees. The pilot shortage, exacerbated by layoffs during the pandemic, has prompted regional carriers to offer significant bonuses to attract new pilots, although demand for pilots has recently decreased as major freight companies like FedEx and UPS aim to cut costs. Despite the hiring slowdowns, airlines continue to train new pilots, with educational institutions reporting full classrooms. American Airlines has added 2,300 pilots last year and plans to hire 1,300 this year, indicating a sustained need for pilots in the industry. Industry leaders remain optimistic about the long-term demand for travel, suggesting that the current hiring challenges may be temporary. Overall, while the airline industry has made significant strides in recovery, it faces ongoing challenges that could impact future hiring and operational capabilities. The balance between staffing needs and external pressures will be crucial for airlines as they navigate the post-Covid landscape.