There's growing concerns that the current shortages in New Zealand's aviation sector could do long-term harm to the industry.

New reports show more pilots and engineers are needed every year, but the costs of tertiary study are locking prospective students out of training courses.

Aviation Industry Association of New Zealand CEO Simon Wallace says the Government needs to increase the amount students can borrow to complete their training.

"As far as domestic students are concerned, the student loan cap is set at $70,000. Tuition fees for training to be a pilot are $120,000 - students are having to fund $50,000 themselves." 

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