The State of Aviation in 2026 with A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz – Pilot Hiring, Opportunities & the Road Ahead

Episode 49 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above

In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis is joined by his co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz for a timely look at the state of the aviation industry and European pilot market in 2026.

Recorded on September 20th, 2026, the conversation brings a firsthand perspective from inside European airline operations to a market that has become increasingly competitive for pilots seeking their next opportunity.

Stefan shares his view of where the industry stands today, what has changed over the past year, and how the situation looks specifically across Europe. Particular attention is given to airline hiring, why selection has become more competitive, and what this means for pilots trying to enter the professional cockpit.

Together, they discuss:

- How Stefan sees the aviation industry in 2026 - What has changed during the past year - The current situation in the European aviation market - Why airline hiring has become more selective and competitive - Why technical and flying skills alone may no longer be enough - The growing importance of soft skills, personality, and mental performance - How the situation differs for new and experienced pilots - Why aspiring and newly qualified pilots need flexibility and strong overall preparation - Where Stefan currently sees opportunities across Europe - What gives him confidence about aviation’s future despite the uncertainties - How the European market could develop over the next few years

The conversation also moves into mental performance, with Stefan inviting Jürgen to share perspectives from his work as a professional mental performance coach focusing on pilots. The discussion explores why performing as a complete candidate—technically, personally, and mentally—has become an increasingly important part of succeeding in a competitive airline assessment environment.

Alongside the main topics, Stefan and Jürgen explore several related aspects of today’s industry, creating a wide-ranging conversation about both the challenges and opportunities facing pilots.

For student pilots, newly qualified pilots, and those currently looking for their next cockpit position, Episode 49 offers an especially relevant look at the realities of the European aviation market—and why being ready for opportunity means bringing more than technical competence alone.

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🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz.

Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.