This is from our source with strong connections inside the loop:
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Okay, here's the deal.
Stevens was going to push the Transportation Bill [which had an amendment for S65] in December 2006. It was considered for an Umibus Package of 9 separate bills. When the Dem's took the House and Senate, all bets were off for any legislation in Dec due to the "Hey, we've got the ball now, we'll handle it in the new Congress!"
Here we are in January and the new Congress is faced with the same problem. While they could decide to either pass each bill separately or through an Omnibus Package, it is most likely they will go for what they call a "continuing resolution" --- this allows the bill passed last year in 2006 to fund these departments through 2007, while taking the amendments and putting them on hold.
This will put the pressure where it needs to be and that is the FAA. The FAA is planning an NPRM in May, and this process usually takes 18 months. Inhofe's comment is interesting because he may be thinking optimistically that the FAA will change the rule by August. I and Frank do not believe this is realistic, but it is possible.
So there are two parts to this gig. FAA change of ruling. AND then most importantly, is called "Statutory Legislation" from Congress which protects the unions and corporate structures. UAL or anyone else do not want the 63 yr old Captain showing back up saying "Here I am, I'm ready for training!"
So the legislation is set in place to protect from lawsuits, etc. This will not be retroactive for those already 60+ !!!
That's the size of it gang. I do not believe we will see the change till late this year, and if any thing happens --- like a Katrina or more Iraq problems, this issue will go to a back burner.
I also believe it could go to a back burner if the corporations pull the trigger on Consolidation. UAL/CAL or DAL and AMR/NW or any other combination you can think of... Consolidation will certainly direct Congress's interest in a different direction --- thus less concern for age60.
Look, at the end of the day, it's going to happen, it is a matter of when.