Addressing the skilled workforce shortage in the Maltese aviation industry's maintenance, repair and overhaul sector : a plausible way forward

Abstract

This study addresses the critical shortage of skilled labour in Malta's aviation industry's Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector. As global demand for MRO services escalates, Malta struggles to attract, train, and retain sufficient skilled professionals, threatening the sector's competitiveness and growth. The research aims to analyse the current workforce landscape, identify the causes of the shortage, and propose strategies to mitigate this issue. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining secondary data analysis with primary data collection through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including MRO management, employees, and educational representatives from the Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST). Thematic analysis of the interview data reveals four major challenges: the industry's attractiveness, workforce availability and preferences, education and industry alignment, and broader industry and economic challenges. Key findings highlight that the Maltese aviation maintenance sector is less attractive than other industries. Additionally, there is a significant mismatch between the skills taught in educational institutions and the practical demands of the industry. The local labour pool is insufficient to meet growing demands, leading to reliance on foreign labour, which presents its own set of challenges, including bureaucratic hurdles and high turnover rates. The study concludes with recommendations to enhance the sector's appeal, improve training and education alignment with industry needs, and develop policies to attract and retain skilled workers. These strategies are crucial for ensuring the sustainable growth of Malta's aviation MRO sector and its contribution to the broader economy.