How many pilots are there in the United Kingdom?

There are approximately 19,500 active professional pilots in the United Kingdom, according to data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This number includes pilots working for airlines, private companies, and government agencies. The majority of pilots in the UK hold a commercial pilot's license (CPL), which allows them to fly aircraft for hire or reward. There are also a small number of private pilots, who fly for personal reasons and not for hire.