Growing Recruitment Demand in Aviation
Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced a new recruitment drive aimed at hiring flight attendants in the Philippines as part of its ongoing efforts to mitigate staffing shortages. Following the disruption of operations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the airline is actively rebuilding its workforce in anticipation of a rebound in travel demand. JAL is not alone in this change; several airlines globally are racing to restore their teams and operations to pre-pandemic levels.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global aviation industry is on track to deliver a strong recovery, projecting a return to 2019 passenger levels by 2023. The heightened travel demand has compelled airlines worldwide to ramp up recruitment, and JAL is strategically looking to the Philippines. This country has long been recognized for its skilled workforce and its English-speaking competency, both crucial traits for flight attendants catering to international passengers.
In the first quarter of 2023 alone, the airline industry in Asia Pacific reported a strong demand recovery of 83% of total capacity compared to 2019 levels, according to IATA's data. The recruitment by JAL is indicative of both regional growth trends and a broader strategy to source talent in markets that can fulfill the demanding needs of international air travel.
Competitive Advantage of Hiring from the Philippines
The Philippines has emerged as a crucial hub for recruiting flight attendants due to its abundance of hospitality professionals, often well-trained and familiar with customer service dynamics. Surveys conducted by the Philippine Association of Jetsetters noted that about 60% of its members have switched jobs to join airlines following the easing of travel restrictions.
JAL's recruitment strategy focuses on filling positions not only for traditional roles but also for diverse roles such as in-flight services and customer relations. The recruitment sessions scheduled to begin next month come at a time when many other international airlines, including Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways, are also seeking to build their teams in the region.
Furthermore, JAL’s choice to recruit from the Philippines is bolstered by the local government’s support for employment in the aviation sector. The Department of Labor and Employment in the Philippines has partnered with various airlines to facilitate training and job placements for returning workers displaced during the pandemic, thereby demonstrating a commitment to reviving employment in aviation.
In 2021, data showed that the global airline industry faced a workforce deficit of more than 250,000 jobs, and JAL's move aims to prevent any further disruptions in service as they prepare for the expected surge in travelers. The airline has a longstanding history in aviation, serving millions of passengers since its inception in 1951. Moreover, JAL has been recognized for its commitment to quality service, having received multiple awards from international organizations.
