Date of Award

3-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Operational Sciences

First Advisor

Aaron V. Glassburner, PhD

Abstract

America's General Aviation sector has witnessed significant demographic shifts since the turn of the century. The number of certified, private pilots, non-fatal aircraft accidents, fatal aircraft accidents, and number of general aviation hours flown are all in decline. Meanwhile, the average age of an American private pilot has increased by several years. All of these factors indicate that the industry is in decline. This study determined via mathematical, linear regression that times relationship to the number of annual, fatal General Aviation accidents and the number of certified private pilots is negative. It also proved that the average age of the private pilot demographic is increasing, as the overall size of the demographic decreases. These findings prove ominous for a shrinking community that relies on its size to leverage the government and the public for support and recruitment.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENS-MS-21-M-177

DTIC Accession Number

AD1131179

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