Originally Posted by
DLax85
In recent postings, Flight Mgmt states the average age of FDX pilots has only increased from 49 yrs old to 50 yrs old since 2010, however, comparing the “averages” of two different distributions does not necessarily make them equivalent.
Note: The following distributions all have the same average of 5, but are vastly different.
5,5,5,5,5,5,5,5,5,5
0,0,0,0,0,10,10,10,10,10
0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10
Since 2008, there have been approximately 971 pilots eligible for retirement and only about 628 have retired --- so in that portion of the pilot distribution alone (Age 60-65), we have seen a net increase of approximately 343 pilots.
Additionally, since April 2008 we have only hired about 304 “new” (presumably younger) pilots --- meaning that the remaining 4,136 pilots (88%) on property are all 5 years older
Bottom line --- instead of comparing the overall “average” age of the crew force, I think it would be more enlightening to compare the percentage of the crew force in each age range --- 60-65, 55-60, 50-55, 45-50, etc
My guess --- this would reveal a greater “aging of the crew force", especially in those year groups (50+) where pilots, and the general population, tend to have an increase in medical issues.