Age Is Just a Number When It Comes to Flight Training

With some caveats, there really is no such thing as being ‘too old’ to be a pilot.

Tuesday, December 05, 2023 at 06:08 PM ET

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As long as the learner can pass a third-class medical exam, there is no maximum age limit for flight training. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

There is no maximum age limit for private pilots as long as they can pass a third-class medical exam, though airline pilots have a mandatory retirement age of 65.
Over-40 pilots seeking a second career in professional aviation often face age bias and scheduling difficulties at flight schools, which prioritize trainees with airline contracts.
Second-career pilot candidates must update their knowledge on current regulations, equipment, and certification processes, but they are typically highly dedicated and committed to achieving their aviation goals.

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“Am I too old to be a private pilot?”

Flight instructors hear this question often. The answer is, as long as you can pass the third-class medical exam, it is doable. There is no maximum age limit for private pilots. However, there is one for airline pilots. The mandatory retirement age for airline pilots as of December 4 is 65. It doesn’t matter if you can still hold a Class 1 medical certificate, you are still healthy enough to hike the Pacific Coast Trail every other year, or you are frequently mistaken for the sibling of your 40-something-year-old child, age 65 is the cutoff.