Generational turnover is necessary in a sector that requires 300 specialized pilots for this mission over the next five years. One of the biggest obstacles is the training itself, which is long and expensive, with a cost of around 80,000 euros.
The helicopter pilot sector in wildfire fighting is calling for the addition of 300 new pilots to cover a necessary generational turnover in such an important job, especially during the season when the most wildfires occur.
This is the case for Víctor, a psychologist by profession, who aspires to become a helicopter pilot using a simulator that mimics real flight conditions. He wants to specialize in firefighting, a profession with zero unemployment. “It seems like a very beautiful job with an essential role,” he admits.
However, moving from the simulator to real life requires a great deal of prior training, as it is a “very dangerous” operation, according to Pedro Mangas, the head instructor at World Aviation.
These 300 new pilots should be brought on within a maximum of five years, but this goal is hindered by several factors. The first is that, to accumulate flight hours, the Spanish Airline Pilots Union (SEPLA) demands that helicopters be manned by two pilots. Another obstacle is the training, which, besides being lengthy, is costly, potentially reaching up to 80,000 euros.
