ICAO Rejects Proposal to Raise Pilot Retirement Age to 67

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has voted against a proposal to increase the mandatory retirement age for airline pilots from 65 to 67. The decision was made during the 42nd ICAO Assembly, held in Montreal from September 23 to October 3, 2025.

The proposal, submitted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), had gained widespread backing from airlines around the world. IATA argued that raising the retirement age would help mitigate the growing global pilot shortage while retaining highly experienced aviators in the cockpit for longer. The association emphasized that advancements in health monitoring and simulator training make it possible for older pilots to continue flying safely.

However, ICAO member states ultimately rejected the proposal, citing safety concerns and potential health-related risks associated with extending pilot service beyond 65. Several delegations noted that while experience is valuable, the physical and cognitive demands of international flight operations require strict medical and age-related limits to ensure passenger safety.

As a result, ICAO regulations remain unchanged: pilots aged 65 and above will continue to be prohibited from operating international flights. The decision maintains the status quo established in 2014, when the retirement age was last raised from 60 to 65.

Industry analysts say the outcome will likely intensify discussions within airlines and regulatory bodies about how to address the global pilot shortage without compromising safety. Some carriers may turn to accelerated training programs, expanded cadet recruitment, or greater use of automation to meet future demand.

Despite the setback, IATA has indicated that it will continue to work with ICAO and member states to explore alternative solutions to the pilot workforce challenge.