Global Airlines Propose Raising Pilot Retirement Age to 67

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), representing around 350 airlines globally, has proposed raising the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots from 65 to 67 years to address a growing shortage of pilots amid increasing air travel demand. This proposal will be considered by the U.N.'s International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) at its upcoming General Assembly, with the stipulation that at least one pilot on multi-pilot flights be under 65. IATA argues that the increase is a cautious, reasonable step aligned with safety and sustainable development goals, noting that raising the age limit from 60 to 65 in 2006 did not compromise aviation safety. However, major U.S. pilot unions oppose the change, citing insufficient data to guarantee safety and maintaining concerns that such a move could jeopardize passenger security. Some countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, have no upper age limit for pilots, while India, a fast-growing aviation market, has urged ICAO to establish a Code of Conduct to regulate pilot movements internationally amid concerns over foreign airlines recruiting its pilots. The debate highlights the tension between addressing pilot shortages and maintaining rigorous safety standards in the evolving global aviation industry.