Discussion: Addressing the Pilot Shortage – Evaluating Cognitive Decline in Pilots

There has been a great deal of attention focused on the impending pilot shortage in the United States and internationally, and no real solution has been proposed except “we need to train more pilots fast!” Raising the mandatory retirement age from 60 to 65 back in 2009 helped, but it simply postponed the inevitable fact that the aviation industry needs to do something to meet increasing demand. A multi-pronged solution has been floated that recommends, among other things, raising the mandatory retirement age once again to 70.

What do you think? Research the literature associated with aging and pilot performance and form an opinion as to whether raising the mandatory retirement age to 70 is a good idea or not. Remember to use research findings and facts to support your views.

500-750 words, APA format an at least one scholarly citation.