Airline Pilots Flying to Age 67?

The unanticipated consequences of hiring incentives.

Tuesday, March 07, 2023 at 11:29 AM ET

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Mandatory retirement age for airline pilots didn’t exist until March 1960, when it became a federal aviation regulation. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

The proposed "Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act," which aims to extend the mandatory pilot retirement age from 65 to 67, is criticized as counterproductive, creating more problems than it would solve for the perceived pilot shortage.
Extending the retirement age is problematic due to higher sick leave rates among older pilots, international flight restrictions for those over 65, and complex operational and training challenges that would further strain airline resources.
The article suggests the pilot shortage requires comprehensive solutions, including incentivizing new pilots with better compensation and student loans, bridging the experience gap for aspiring pilots, and fostering industry-wide collaboration.

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Understandably, the flying public has become frustrated with the frequent delays and cancellations now associated with the anxiousness of airline travel. The post-pandemic pent-up travel demand is the primary catalyst. Although many factors are involved, the so-called “pilot shortage” has been showcased as a significant culprit.

Responding to their constituents’ angst, Republicans Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Rep. Chip Roy of Texas introduced the “Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act” on July 25, which would extend the mandatory airline pilot age from 65 to 67. Although well-intended, the legislation would create more problems than it would solve. It shouldn’t even be considered a Band-Aid.