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WASHINGTON, D.C.: A U.S. House of Representatives committee narrowly approved raising the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots, from 65 to 67.

The amendment was approved by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on a vote of 32 to 31.

The change in retirement age for pilots is part of a proposed five-year bill to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) aviation safety and infrastructure programs for the next five years.

Representative Troy Nehls, a Republican, highlighted that while commercial airline pilots are currently required to retire at age 65, they can continue to fly corporate and charter jets beyond that age. He argued that raising the retirement age could help address the ongoing pilot shortage.

The FAA bill, which spans approximately 800 pages, was approved by the committee with a unanimous vote of 63-0. It is expected to be brought before the full House for consideration next month.

Committee chair Republican Representative Sam Graves emphasized the bill’s importance to the economy, job market, and the millions of passengers who rely on the aviation system each year.

However, the proposal to raise the pilot retirement age is facing opposition from unions and has an uncertain fate in a U.S. Senate committee. The Senate will review its own version of the FAA measure, which currently does not include the provision to raise the retirement age.

The Regional Airline Association (RAA) has expressed support for the pilot retirement age increase, citing the impact of pilot shortages on airports and air service.

According to the RAA, some 324 airports have experienced a significant reduction in air service, with over 400 airplanes grounded due to the lack of pilots. They argue that raising the retirement age will help retain experienced pilots, particularly captains.

On the other hand, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) opposes the proposal, citing concerns about airline scheduling, pilot training, and potential contract renegotiations. ALPA also noted that even if the measure is approved, international regulations would still prohibit pilots older than 65 from flying in most countries outside the U.S.

They also criticized the proposal as a politically motivated decision that fails to consider the operational aspects of the airline industry, pilot profession, and safety.

Additionally, Senator Lindsey Graham previously pointed out that in 2007 the United States successfully raised the mandatory retirement age for pilots from 60 to 65 without adverse consequences.

However, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg does not support raising the pilot retirement age.

While the House bill includes provisions to prohibit airlines from charging family seating fees, it does not address minimum seat size requirements or introduce new rules for passenger compensation in cases of delays.