Global Pilot Shortage Deepens After Rejected Retirement Age Plan

A global pilot shortage could intensify after the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) rejected a proposal to raise the mandatory pilot retirement age from 65 to 67. The decision, reached during an ICAO assembly in Canada, has sparked debate across the aviation industry, with concerns that it could lead to more flight delays, cancellations, and rising airfares.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) had pushed for the age increase, arguing it would help ease the shortage of qualified pilots worldwide. However, ICAO delegates voted to delay any change until more medical research supports the move. Air Line Pilots Association president Jason Ambrosi welcomed the decision, emphasizing that safety must come before staffing needs.

While most countries adhere to the 65-year cap for international flights, nations such as Australia, Japan, and New Zealand allow domestic pilots to fly into their 70s under strict medical checks. Australian and International Pilots Association vice president Steven Cornell said the union supports raising the age only if proven safe, noting the physical and mental challenges of long-haul flying across multiple time zones.

Veteran Qantas pilot Captain Dave Holt, 63, believes experience should matter more than age. “As long as you’re fit and meet the standard, you shouldn’t be grounded just because of a number,” he said.

According to Boeing’s industry outlook, airlines will need 660,000 new pilots globally over the next 20 years. With training costs as high as $150,000 and better pay abroad, retention remains a growing challenge for aviation worldwide.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, abc.net.au