Originally Posted by
tm602
Especially in a very dynamic environment like NJA has. I'm not necessarily saying anything one way or the other over a retirement age "number", but there needs to be some cognitive testing done as age advances. Not some BS simulator ride where the gouge gets out and you're the only plane in the sky etc. Something that is done by mental health professionals. Flame away, but biology is biology. Some hold on better than others and this a way to prove it. You have it or you lost it. Some by age 45 are checked out, and I have seen guys in their 70s holding on well.
First the entire 135 world needs to have a retirement age. 135 and 121 fly in the same environment, same rules, same violations, and same weather.
Problem with pilots who are having issues is follow pilots won't speak up and report to the correct people to handle or deal with the shortcomings. If the problem pilot passes a sim eval, FAA medical and a route check then where or how to we identify an issue? Line pilots who fly daily with a pilot who can't do their job.
If one goes out for any surgery when you return you have to be 100% ready to work. No restricted duty and that should apply to a pilot flying. If they can't load or unload bags then make a call. I think many pilots are tired of hearing "he is a really good guy, so I don't want to turn him in..." This lack of action must stop.