Some lawmakers believe raising the retirement age of pilots would help alleviate the current shortage of pilots. [Credit: Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
The House Transportation Committee passed an FAA Reauthorization bill that includes a provision to raise the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots from 65 to 67.
Proponents argue this change would help alleviate the current pilot shortage and an anticipated wave of retirements, pointing out that pilots can already fly corporate/charter jets past 65.
The proposal faces strong opposition from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), citing safety concerns, potential displacement of younger pilots, and increased training costs, while its effectiveness for regional and international flights is also questioned.
The provision's ultimate inclusion is uncertain as it narrowly passed the House committee and is not present in the Senate's version of the reauthorization bill.
Commercial airline pilots looking to retire at 65 might have to defer those plans for a couple of years, if House transportation lawmakers have their way.
On Wednesday, the House Committee of Transportation and Infrastructure unanimously passed its FAA Reauthorization bill, which includes a provision to increase the retirement age for commercial pilots from 65 to 67.
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Amelia Walsh is a private pilot who enjoys flying her family’s Columbia 350. She is based in Colorado and loves all things outdoors including skiing, hiking, and camping.
