Hey, the major airlines LOVE 50 year olds. Start out at the bottom of the pay scale , never do work their way to the top, all they are risking is the cost of a type rating which is what? $15k or so plus 2 months training pay? That’s scarcely a huge amount of money or much risk - which every regional takes with every 1500 hour (or less) CFI they hire. What is the average cost per flying hour for the 15 years it takes for a couple of 50 year olds to retire at age 65? Now what is the cost per flying hour for a single 35 year old to provide the same 30 years of flying? Do the math.

The first two old fogies are going to be under 12 years on the pay scale for all but a combined six years - most of that as an FO. The 35 year old will be above 12 years on the pay scale for 18 years - most of that as a CA.

THAT difference more than offsets a couple of training events. H€||, the difference in the DC in the younger guys 401k contributions alone the last few years would pay fir a few type ratings.

and if they are military retirees, with TRICARE covering most of their medical expenses, a federal pension, and no history whatsoever of union activity, most companies can’t get to them fast enough.

No, older pilots are a good deal for the airlines economically.