What does Preamble of Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act do?

This bill proposes to amend title 49 of the United States Code. The stated purpose of the bill is to raise the retirement age for pilots engaged in commercial aviation operations. The bill was introduced in the Senate on April 30, 2026, by Mr. Graham and Mr. Kelly.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act do?

This bill is formally titled Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act

What does INCREASED RETIREMENT AGE FOR PILOTS. of Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act do?

This section amends title 49 of the United States Code regarding age standards for pilots. Pilots may serve in multicrew covered operations until attaining 67 years of age. Air carriers can elect to restrict pilots over 70 from serving in certain covered operations by providing written notice to the FAA, with the restriction taking effect one year after notice. Covered operations are defined as those under part 121 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or by persons meeting specific criteria including holding certain certificates and performing a minimum number of turbojet operations. Subsections (d) and (e) of section 121.383 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations are amended to increase the age listed to 67 years. Pilots who have attained 65 before enactment are restricted unless already employed or newly hired without credit for prior service. Actions taken in conformance with this section are protected from liability under employment laws. Amendments to labor agreements regarding pilot requirements must be made by agreement between the air carrier and the pilots' bargaining representative. Pilots are generally not subject to different medical standards or more frequent examinations based on age, unless the FAA determines it's necessary for safety. Pilots 60 or older serving in covered operations must have a first-class medical certificate that expires six months after the examination date.

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Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act

Last updated: 4/30/2026 · Introduced: 4/30/2026

Author: Lindsey Graham (R-SC)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill raises the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots from 65 to 67.
Air carriers can optionally restrict pilots over 70 from specific operations, provided they give the FAA advance notice.
Pilots aged 65 or older at the time of enactment may continue flying if already employed or hired without prior service credit.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 1 more.

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