Of course they don't but are you really learning stuff in high school that relates so much to your ability to fly an aircraft. I say not any more than the knowledge you would be learning in College. Namely responsibility.

Of course we have always needed a highschool diploma so nobody complains about having to finish high school. If college had been required all along it would be the same. I really do think that the general public expects their pilots to be educated and if most other professions are following suit this is the natural course. Do we really want to be known as the job anyone can get without an education.

Lets not fool ourselves, the flying part isn't all that hard and you all know it. Its the regulations and decision making skills that can be the tough part for many ppl. I've seen alot of guys that can definately fly but don't need to be upgrading as they don't have that extra something that a captain needs.

I think this ATP minimums and a 4 year degree will drastically help things for the future flyers