Let Experienced Pilots Fly

Summary#

This bill changes federal rules about how old a pilot can be and other related rules. It raises the age a pilot may serve in certain multicrew commercial operations to 67. Some smaller commercial operators that meet specific criteria may choose to keep an age limit up to 70 by telling the FAA in writing; that choice takes effect one year after notice and cannot be ended. The bill defines which operations are covered, updates related Federal Aviation Regulations language, and sets rules about who is allowed to keep flying when the law takes effect.

The bill also says pilots age 60 or older must hold a first-class medical certificate that expires six months after the exam. It requires that air carriers keep using FAA-approved pilot training and qualification programs. Changes to collective bargaining or benefit plans required by the bill must be made by agreement with pilot bargaining representatives. The bill includes a nondiscrimination rule on medical exams by age unless the FAA finds new data that requires different standards. It prevents legal claims based on actions taken to follow the bill or existing rules before the bill was passed.

What it means for you#

• Pilots: If you fly in the covered multicrew operations described, you could be allowed to serve until age 67. If you are 60 or older, you must have a first-class medical certificate that expires six months after the exam. Pilots who were 65 or older before the law takes effect can keep flying only if they were employed as required flight deck crew on the enactment date or if they are newly hired without credit for prior seniority or service under carrier rules.
• Air carriers: Carriers operating under the defined covered operations must follow the new age limits and medical certificate rules. Certain carriers that meet part 135 and turbojet operation criteria may elect to set a 70-year age limit by notifying the FAA, with that election becoming permanent once effective. Carriers must agree with pilot bargaining representatives to change collective bargaining or benefit plans to conform with the law.
• Passengers and the public: The bill requires carriers to continue FAA-approved pilot training and qualification programs. The bill text does not provide information on safety outcomes or service impacts.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on federal costs, administrative expenses, or effects on carrier finances is provided in the bill text.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information on proponents' arguments or stated benefits is provided in the bill text or accompanying metadata.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information on opponents' arguments or objections is provided in the bill text or accompanying metadata.