High hopes for hiring
With aircraft orders, airport expansion, and passenger rates all buoyant, the potential for job growth in the region's aviation sector looks ever more promising.
Speaking at a forecast presentation in Sydney this week, Boeing vice-president Randy Tinseth noted that the Asia-Pacific market is now the world's largest, with annual growth rates likely to remain in the 7 per cent range for some time.
In a recent interview with The Economist, outgoing International Air Transportation Association chief Giovanni Bisignani attributed much of this growth to increased demand for personal and business travel on the mainland. Come 2014, he said, passenger numbers in China could rise by as much as 210 million.
In response, airlines in the region are placing ever-larger orders for additional aircraft. The most notable of these came late last month with discount carrier AirAsia confirming a record 200-jet purchase from Airbus.
Infrastructure planners are also preparing for expansion, with central and municipal authorities drawing up proposals for an additional 52 airports across China.
In Hong Kong, many expect the government to approve the proposal for a third runway, despite its hefty price tag and environmental concerns.
Whatever the outcome, those pursuing a career in the sector appear to be well positioned for a wealth of opportunities ahead.
