Private jet hiring, engineering demand and summer surge

As we move into the second half of the year, the aviation recruitment market shows no signs of slowing. At Menska, we’ve seen continued growth in both candidate activity and client hiring needs — particularly across private and business aviation, maintenance, and sales roles.

Here’s what we’re seeing right now.

• Private aviation continues to accelerate

Demand for experienced flight crew remains high, especially for operators flying Global, Challenger and Gulfstream fleets. We’ve had strong interest in captain and first officer roles for long-range missions, including fixed-term and rotational contracts across the Middle East and Europe.

Operators are increasingly looking for crew who can offer both technical excellence and client-facing professionalism. In response, candidates are prioritising roles that offer stable rosters, high-spec aircraft, and supportive team culture. Open base contracts remain a key driver for interest.

• Maintenance and engineering roles remain steady

The second quarter brought a continued demand for B1 and B2 licensed engineers, particularly those with type ratings on Airbus and Boeing platforms. MROs and operators alike are investing in line and base maintenance talent to support aircraft availability during peak summer schedules.

We’ve also seen an uptick in interest from international candidates looking to relocate or return to the UK, especially where sponsorship is offered. For employers, the message is clear: flexibility around location, shifts and visa support can dramatically expand the talent pool.

• Commercial sales and charter hiring picks up pace

Business development and sales roles have returned strongly, with multiple vacancies across jet card, charter and ACMI sectors. There’s a renewed focus on revenue generation, and clients are prioritising individuals who can bring both a book of business and a modern approach to client service.

From Vice President Sales roles in Palma to Flight Services Executives in London, we’re seeing strong candidate interest in joining dynamic, growing operators.

• What this means for candidates

If you’re a pilot, engineer or aviation sales professional looking to make a move in 2024, now is a strong time to act. Employers are hiring across a wide range of locations and aircraft types, and many are open to training or offering flexible arrangements for the right candidate.

If you’re not seeing the right role on our live jobs page, we always encourage you to get in touch. We often work on confidential placements or early-stage briefs not yet advertised.

• What this means for employers

Competition for talent remains high — especially for roles that involve relocation, niche type ratings, or high-profile client interaction. Candidates are not just looking for pay and benefits; they’re asking about team culture, schedule stability, onboarding support and growth opportunities.

At Menska, we help bridge that gap by representing your business clearly and credibly, ensuring you attract people who are the right fit technically and culturally.

Looking ahead

The next quarter is likely to be driven by operational pressure from peak summer schedules, followed by long-term planning for autumn and winter flight programmes. Whether you’re looking to scale up, fill a key position, or make a move in your own career, now is the time to get ahead.

We’re ready when you are.