FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute
PUBLICATIONS
AVIATION MEDICINE REPORTS

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-94/21

Title and Subtitle: Age 60 Rule Research, Part II: Airline Pilot Age and Performance A Review of the Scientific Literature, ADA286246

Report Date: October 1994

Authors: Hyland, D.T., Kay, E.J., Deimler; J.D., and Gurman, E.B.

Abstract: This review of the literature establishes the scientific foundation for subsequent studies on the Age 60 Rule research conducted under a contract with Hilton Systems, Inc. The scientific literature relevant to the two separate scientific approaches required by the contract is reviewed. The document first provides a review of the "Age 60 Rule," as well as the theoretical and methodological considerations critical to the study of aging and the assessment of individual pilot performance. A proposed model is presented to form a framework for the research. Pilot behaviors affected by aging and/or experience are reviewed.

Specific performance assessment batteries are reviewed in detail in Appendix A. Issues related to measuring complex pilot performance are discussed. Recommendations and criteria for developing a performance methodology are presented. The second part of the literature review provides a discussion of the issues related to the analyses of existing data to assess the relationship between pilot age, experience, and accident rates. This section provides a critical review of existing analyses and presents recommendations for an improved analytical methodology.

Key Words: Pilot Age and Performance, Age 60 Rule, Mandatory Pilot Retirement

No. of Pages: 138