TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s leading airlines plan to recruit about 320 pilots as they expand fleets and routes, with recruitment efforts highlighted by a job fair at National Taiwan University on Sunday.

Taiwan’s China Airlines and EVA Air both attended the campus event, where they introduced career opportunities and outlined plans to strengthen pilot recruitment. They said such efforts were needed to support growing flight capacity and network expansion, per CNA.

China Airlines said it plans to recruit 160 pilots this year. The airline is introducing a new fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft while continuing to add Airbus A321neo and Airbus A350 planes to its fleet.

Pilots attending the job fair said the profession offers a strong sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to soar through the skies. They also said the job carries the responsibility of ensuring the safety of every flight.

China Airlines said newly recruited pilots will first undergo internal operational training before receiving further training at a partner flight school. Beginning in April, the airline will hold pilot training seminars in Taipei, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. The airline also encouraged experienced pilots to apply, saying it welcomes diverse talent to join its expanding fleet.

Meanwhile, EVA Air presented its pilot career development program and comprehensive training system during the event. Three pilots shared their career paths and training experiences, while students asked questions about application requirements, career planning, and lifestyle.

EVA Air said that in response to the booming global aviation market, it will continue to introduce new aircraft and open new routes. To support increased flight capacity and fleet expansion, the airline plans to recruit nearly 160 pilots this year and will accept applications year-round.

EVA Air currently operates a fleet of 89 aircraft, including 80 passenger planes and nine cargo planes. Its Boeing 787 fleet totals 21 aircraft and is expected to expand to 34 by 2033. The airline also plans to introduce 24 Airbus A350-1000 wide-body aircraft between 2027 and 2033 and receive 18 Airbus A321neo narrow-body aircraft between 2029 and 2033.

EVA Marine also set up a recruitment booth at the campus job fair, announcing openings in 11 categories including sales, customer service, finance, ship construction supervision, cargo scheduling, management and supply, counter staff, and information technology. The company said starting monthly salaries for these positions can reach up to NT$54,000 (US$1,700).