DLax85,

Thanks for asking that question about a guy, over 65, who goes out on LTD. I say thanks because it caused me to investigate and find out that I was (again) incorrect in my above comments.

According to the contract, a pilot going out on LTD will continue to be paid 60% for 2 years and then 50% until he is 65 or retires or goes back to flying. During this time he accumulates longevity and seniority. However, a second officer who goes out on LTD will continue to be paid 60% for the first 2 years and then 50% until he is either 65 or (as in my case, I went out at age 61 & 1/2) 5 years on LTD, whichever comes later, or he returns to the line. Again, during this time he accrues longevity and seniority. So, for me, I find that the contract allows me to stay until I'm 66 & 1/2, or exactly 5 years from the date that I started my LTD, which puts me here until September 27th, 2012.

This, for the most part, can be read in Section 27-J-3-b of the contract, which I've copied below:

3. LTD benefits payable to a pilot whose disability commences on
or after October 30, 2006 shall equal 60% of monthly earnings
for the first 24 months that a pilot is eligible to receive benefits
under the LTD plan. Thereafter:

a. Benefits payable to a captain or first officer who becomes
disabled and continues to have an occupational disability
through the earlier of the date on which such pilot (1) ceases
to be disabled, or (2) attains age 65 (or, if the Company no
longer employs second officers, regulated age), shall equal
50% of monthly earnings, as described in Section 27.J.5.
herein.
b. Benefits payable to a second officer (while the Company
employs second officers) who becomes disabled and
who continues to have an occupational disability through
the earlier of the date on which such pilot (1) ceases to
be disabled, or (2) the later of the date on which the pilot
attains age 65 or receives benefits under the LTD Plan for
5 years, shall equal 50% of monthly earnings, as described
in Section 27.J.5. herein.

Hope this helps.

JJ