The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has raised concerns about a brain drain of qualified pilots in Africa due to the operationalization of the 1500-hour flight rule. IATA Director General, Willie Walsh, highlighted this issue during the recent virtual launch of “Focus Africa”.

He pointed out that while the United States and Canada are experiencing a brain gain of pilots, Africa is facing a mass exodus of qualified pilots seeking better career prospects abroad.

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Walsh explained that the 1500-hour rule has created a situation where talented individuals leave their home countries in Africa for better opportunities in the USA.

This rule requires a significantly higher number of flying hours to become a qualified commercial pilot in the USA and Canada compared to the rest of the world, where only 250 hours are required