Article discusses pilot age cutoffs
January 10, 2011, 04:18 pm
Pilot Magazine recently interviewed two master Certified Flight Instructors and asked their opinions on what the lower and upper age limits should be for flying a plane. The conclusion? Age may not be as relevant as one would assume.
According to the interviewed aviators, the more important factors in determining age-based eligibility to fly are maturity and ability to safely maneuver an aircraft and perform the other essential duties of flying.
These duties, according to Donna F. Wilt, master CFI and professor of aviation, include being able to read and understand the training materials, reach the controls, see clearly out of the plane, understand and interpret the displays, follow procedures and have good situational awareness.
As far as elderly pilots being allowed to fly, Thomas P. Turner, a 3 time master CFI remarked, "When is someone too old? When mental acuity falters or physical problems prevent performing normal and emergency procedures, then it's time to hang it up."
The current FAA-imposed age requirement for learning to fly is 14 years old for gliders and balloons and 16 years old for other types of aircrafts. There is currently no upper age-limit for flying.
Flying a plane always bears risks for pilots of any age or experience level and life insurance is an important consideration
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