Manila: The Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PhilSCA) is gearing up to play a key role in addressing the global shortage of aviation professionals, with its flying school highlighting the urgent need for the creation of the National Aviation Academy of the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, PhilSCA Flying School Director Ret. BGen. Gerardo Zamudio stated that the aviation industry will require nearly 2 million additional workers worldwide by 2043, including 649,000 pilots, based on projections from aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus. Zamudio emphasized the economic potential of the aviation industry, noting its status as a multi-trillion-dollar global sector.
The proposed National Aviation Academy of the Philippines has already been approved by both houses of Congress and was submitted to Malaca±ang on August 7 for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s signature. Zamudio expressed optimism that the measure will be signed into law soon, enabling the country to enhance its capacity to train world-class pilots and aviation specialists.
At present, PhilSCA offers government-funded pilot training worth PHP3.2 million per student, covering four qualifications: the Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License, multi-engine rating, and instrument rating. The flying program is highly competitive, with only 35 out of 2,589 applicants accepted this year.
Zamudio noted that all PhilSCA students are scholars, with programs ranging from aeronautical engineering and air transportation to aviation safety, electronics, logistics, and tourism. He highlighted that the government funds the education, ensuring parents do not incur any costs.
Graduates of PhilSCA can expect to earn between PHP100,000 to PHP150,000 at the start of their careers as pilots, with senior captains abroad earning as much as USD20,000 monthly. Zamudio assured that strict safety protocols mandated by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) are observed, ensuring adherence to safety management systems, aircraft maintenance programs, and medical standards.
Zamudio concluded that the establishment of the National Aviation Academy will enable the Philippines to produce not only pilots but also aviation technicians, maintenance specialists, and flight operations experts, positioning the country as a key player in the global aviation industry.
