Pilots Shortage Forces China to Lower Selection Criteria for Carrier Aircraft Crew

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has revised its recruitment criteria for pilots of carrier-based aircraft due to a shortage of qualified candidates.

The changes allow younger applicants, including high school graduates and recent bachelor's or master's degree holders, to participate in the pilot selection program for 2025.

The PLA Daily reported on Tuesday that the medical assessment standards have been relaxed, particularly regarding ophthalmological requirements. Candidates who have undergone vision correction surgeries, such as LASIK, are now eligible for recruitment. This change enables young individuals with nearsightedness to pursue careers as warplane pilots following corrective procedures.

According to a spokesperson from the PLA Navy, the adjustment aims to enhance the recruitment process and widen the pool of potential candidates, enabling the selection of more skilled young individuals for the Navy's pilot team. The revised medical standards have been validated through comprehensive research and verification processes, as noted by the PLA Daily.

Experts suggest that a carrier's combat capability relies on various components, including the vessel itself, the carrier-based aircraft, and a sufficient number of qualified pilots. A military analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized the need for an adequate pilot supply to support the ongoing development of China’s aircraft carriers and related aircraft capabilities.

Currently, China operates three aircraft carriers: the Liaoning, the Shandong, and the Fujian, the latter of which is undergoing extensive sea trials this year. Additionally, a new type of warplane has recently been tested on the Liaoning, as reported by official media in September.

The relaxed criteria signify a strategic move to ensure that the talents of individuals with potential for flight, but who have previously been disqualified due to vision issues, are not overlooked, according to the military expert.