Opportunities for newly qualified helicopter pilots are limited. While the number of job opportunities for helicopter pilots has been increasing over the past 10 years, it is a relatively small occupation, with approximately 300 pilots.
There is an oversupply of entry-level pilots, and operators can fill these lower level positions through word of mouth, so positions do not usually need to be advertised. Helicopter pilots often start on a part-time on-call basis, and then gain permanent positions with companies.
According to the Aviation, Tourism and Travel Training Organisation (ATTTO), 11 new helicopter pilots will be needed in 2009 to fill positions created by:
- an increase in overseas tourists visiting New Zealand, which has caused a greater demand for helicopter pilots in the tourist sector
- greater investment in oil exploration, which requires charter helicopter pilots
- growth of dairy, sheep and beef farming, which relies on the services of agricultural helicopter pilots.
As a result of the growth in these industries, the number of helicopter pilots rose 27% between 2001 and 2006, and continues to grow at a steady pace.
Number of helicopter pilots in New Zealand
(1996, 2001, 2006)| Census | Number of helicopter
pilots |
|---|
| 1996 | 180 |
| 2001 | 231 |
| 2006 | 294 |
| Source: Department of Labour, Jobs and Tertiary Education Indicator. |
Experienced helicopter pilots in demand
Experienced helicopter pilots who are multi-engine and IFR-qualified are in short supply and are in demand. Helicopter operators have difficulty filling these positions, and often place advertisements to find qualified people.
Helicopter pilots can work in a variety of industries, but most are employed in the air transport industry, which includes tourism and rescue services. The agriculture and defence industries employ a high percentage of helicopter pilots as well.
There are also opportunities to work in the forestry, oil exploration, or film industries as well as instructing at flying schools.
Of the over 200 helicopter operators in New Zealand, only a few companies employ 30 people or more. Most helicopter pilots work for small companies with fewer than 10 employees, or may work for themselves.
Depending on the industry being flown for, helicopter pilots can find work across New Zealand, but most work in the main centres: Auckland, Canterbury, Otago, Waikato and Wellington.
