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Advocating for Experienced Pilots: A Call for Change in Retirement Policies

As the aviation sector continues to evolve, the importance of experienced pilots has come to the forefront. Let Experienced Pilots Fly, Inc. (LEPF) is a coalition aiming to address issues surrounding the mandatory retirement age for commercial airline pilots. Recently, their advocacy gained significant attention, especially following a letter sent by Senators Blackburn, Thune, and Kelly to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This letter expresses the urgent need for policy changes that would allow qualified pilots to continue flying past the age of 65.

Captain Barry Kendrick, the president of LEPF, articulated the frustration and concern of many experienced pilots who face mandatory retirement at 65 years old. Although designed for safety reasons, Kendrick argues that this legislation may be both discriminatory and counterproductive. "You can’t teach experience," he asserts. The enforced retirement for capable pilots exacerbates an ongoing experience gap within the industry, where newer pilots often miss invaluable mentorship opportunities.

The age restriction for commercial pilots, according to Kendrick, did not stem from solid safety data. In fact, studies have shown no significant correlation between age and flight safety incidents among older pilots. The aviation environment rigorously evaluates pilots through frequent testing, ensuring their cognitive and flying skills remain sharp. However, the abrupt retirement at a certain age disregards years of honed skills and knowledge accumulated in their careers.

In response to the challenges posed by pilot retirements, Senators Blackburn, Thune, and Kelly have called on Secretary Rubio to take a leadership role in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This UN agency sets global flying standards, and their current agenda includes revisiting the retirement age policy. In 2024, ICAO reported plans to consider eliminating the mandatory retirement age for pilots in light of recent findings about pilot safety.

LEPF views this shift as critical in closing the experience gap. Kendrick states, "New hire training cannot replace thousands of hours of authentic experience. Each pilot's skills, health, and extensive flight hours are vital components when determining flight crew schedules." As the aviation industry faces growing shortages sparked by retirements, retaining experienced pilots could mitigate the impact of lost mentorship for less experienced crew members.

Additionally, President Trump’s recent appointment of retired Delta Air Lines captain Jeffrey Anderson to the ICAO Ambassador position reflects a commitment to prioritizing the voices of experienced pilots. Anderson’s background as a former union leader and consultant to LEPF places him in a strategic position to advocate for necessary reforms. Kendrick hopes that US leadership at ICAO will encourage widespread adoption of revised policies that endorse rigorous testing methods while supporting the extension of service for capable pilots.

Looking forward, LEPF remains dedicated to championing changes that will modernize the retirement policies affecting experienced pilots. They argue that allowing capable pilots to continue flying will not only enhance safety but also bolster the overall proficiency of airline operations. This movement represents a growing recognition of the value and wisdom of seasoned pilots as integral assets in the aviation industry.

In conclusion, as LEPF works tirelessly on Capitol Hill to bring attention to these issues, it emphasizes the importance of aligning policies with current safety standards and recognizing the strategic advantages that come from retaining seasoned aviation professionals. The pilots urge policymakers to reflect on the changing dynamics within the industry and consider the role of experience in ensuring the highest safety standards in air travel.