Regulations and Government
FAA ready to change reviled age-60 rule
After a decades-long battle, the FAA capitulated to the court of international opinion in late January, announcing that it will propose a new rule to permi

After a decades-long battle, the FAA capitulated to the court of international opinion in late January, announcing that it will propose a new rule to permit Part 121 pilots over age 60 to fly as part of a two-pilot crew when the other crewmember is under age 60.

Although many pilots–particularly those at or near age 60– hailed the decision, the change comes too late for pilots already over age 60 and some within two years of that mark. FAA Administrator Marion Blakey said the rulemaking process will take 18 months to two years. The change will not be made retroactive in any circumstance.