‘Brain drain’ hits Philippines aviation sector

CEBU, Philippines — Aside from a shortage of airline pilots and flight attendants, the Philippines is also experiencing a scarcity of airport mechanics, particularly airline maintenance technicians (AMTs).

At the recently concluded Cebu Aviation Summit, industry leaders highlighted the growing demand for Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) in the Philippines, noting that many skilled Filipino professionals in this field are now employed abroad.

Airworks Aviation president Vincent Charles Ong suggested that this could be a chance for Filipinos to consider enrolling in a two-year AMT program to capitalize on the growing demand for this specialized skill in the aviation industry.

In an interview with Ong, he said that the Philippine aviation sector is also facing a “brain drain”, especially in AMTs, as most are now being pirated, mostly in Dubai or Singapore airports.

“Many people don’t realize that this could be their pathway to a career in aviation,” said Ong, adding that the shortage of airline technicians may also stem from a lack of interest among Filipinos in pursuing this often-overlooked profession, which is now highly in demand both locally and globally.

AMTs play a crucial role in ensuring that aircraft fleets are safely and efficiently maintained. Although it’s considered a “blue-collar” job, it offers strong career opportunities and attractive take-home pay.

Yet, more Filipinos especially the younger bunch has yet to discover the potential for this specialized in-demand skill, he added.

Ong mentioned that by next year, they plan to engage the government to help address the opportunities and challenges facing the expanding aviation industry.

Airworks Aviation holds its airline pilot training academy at the General Aviation Area, at Mactan Cebu International Airport, in Lapu-Lapu City.

According to Airbus’ latest market report, the Asia-Pacific region will see a tremendous demand for aviation professionals over the next 20 years, with a need for more than 268,000 pilots, 298,000 mechanics, and 433,000 cabin crew members.

Ong sees this as a prime opportunity for Cebuanos to enter these careers and for Cebu to establish itself as an important industry hub.

Local airlines like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines are expected to expand their fleets and increase flight frequencies, further raising the demand for skilled maintenance professionals.

Ong highlighted that Filipinos are particularly well-suited for these roles, given their strong work ethic and resilience.

“We are the only ones who can withstand the heat,” Ong remarked, highlighting why Filipino AMTs are highly valued worldwide.

In the Philippines, entry-level AMTs earn between P25,000 and P30,000 monthly. With regional and international travel demand rising, Ong emphasized the urgent need to invest in training, education, and awareness campaigns to address the local AMT shortage.

“A successful aviation industry depends on skilled professionals—pilots, aircraft mechanics, flight attendants, and airport staff. The growth of our aviation sector hinges on well-prepared individuals ready to tackle this dynamic field,” Ong stressed.

He added that addressing the AMT shortage aligns with the Philippines’ economic reliance on tourism.

The Economist projects tourist arrivals in the Philippines to reach 12 million by 2030, with nearly all travelers arriving by air.

The surge in flights will increase the demand for ground crews, mechanics, and maintenance personnel to ensure smooth and safe operations

“This elevates aviation beyond just a transportation industry, positioning it as a key driver of economic growth,” Ong noted, referring to the industry’s multiplier effect on job creation, infrastructure, and development.

A strong aviation maintenance workforce will also enhance the Philippines’ appeal as a maintenance hub, attracting international carriers seeking maintenance services.

The Philippines currently hosts various maintenance facilities, such as those operated by Asian Aerospace, Aplus, Lufthansa Technik Philippines, SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corp., and INAEC Aviation Corp. Cebu, in particular, is emerging as a hub, with eight Cebu Pacific Airbuses now stationed at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).

The Cebu Aviation Summit 2024, held on Oct. 25 at City Sports Club Cebu, attracted about 300 participants, including students, parents, industry leaders, and stakeholders.

Key industry figures such as Cebu Pacific, Aboitiz GMCAC (representing MCIA), the Philippine Air Force, CAE, Sputnik Aviation, and Asian Air Safari also joined the summit.

The event was organized to inspire future aviation professionals and appreciate the industry’s promising future, offering young Filipinos a pathway to a thriving career in aviation.

Show comments