Ten years ago, the number of U.S. pilots totaled 639,184. By the end of last year, the figure had dropped to 609,737, according to figures from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.
Though those numbers are declining, a higher percentage of pilots is seeking commercial flying careers. The number of Airline Transport Pilot licenses grew from 123,877 in 1995 to 141,992 at the end of last year, according to GAMA.
