US Pilot Unions Oppose Bill to Raise Mandatory Pilot Retirement Age

Several US pilot unions have expressed their opposition to a proposed bill that aims to increase the mandatory pilot retirement age from 65 to 67. The amendment was introduced by Republican Troy Nehls of Texas as part of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Bill and approved by the US House of Representatives Transport & Infrastructure Committee on June 14, 2023. The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), representing pilots from various airlines, launched a petition against the bill, citing concerns about displaced younger pilots and increased risks in the aviation system. Allied Pilots Association (APA), representing American Airlines pilots, also voiced its opposition, highlighting safety considerations related to aging pilots. Additionally, families of the victims of Colgan Air Flight 3407 criticized the proposed changes to First Officers’ training, arguing that it would weaken the established safety system following the 2009 crash.