U.S. Senators Push to Raise International Pilot Retirement Age

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, is urging the Trump administration to support raising the international mandatory pilot retirement age from 65 to 67. In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senators Marsha Blackburn, Thune, and Democrat Mark Kelly stressed the importance of advocating for this change at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN agency.

The senators argue that increasing the retirement age—combined with strict medical and technical evaluations—would help reduce airline accidents by retaining experienced pilots. While the U.S. allows pilots to fly until age 65, international rules prevent those over 65 from flying in most countries outside the U.S., creating challenges for airlines and international operations.

In 2023, Congress rejected a proposal to increase the retirement age. The Air Line Pilots Association remains opposed, citing potential disruptions to airline schedules, pilot training, and contract renegotiations.

The letter warns that if the U.S. fails to lead on this issue, China—already advocating with allies for a higher retirement age—could fill the leadership void in international aviation policy.

The push for reform comes amid a vacancy at the U.S. mission to ICAO in Montreal. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, famous for the 2009 Hudson River landing, stepped down as ambassador in 2022. President Biden’s 2023 nominee, former Florida Governor Charlie Crist, was never confirmed.

The State Department has yet to comment on the senators' request. With a global pilot shortage and growing demand for air travel, the debate over pilot retirement rules remains critical for aviation safety and industry stability.