Alexander Maroudis (Flight International, 19-25 November) raises a number of very interesting points relating to whether the over-60 pilot can cope with the everyday/night tasks, and environment, of operating an aircraft safely.
I can reassure your readers that all of the topics raised by Mr Maroudis have been fully investigated, and no related problems have been found in this older age group. The results can be found in the published literature, even on the internet.
A pilot's medical status at any age contributes about 50% towards the evaluation of that pilot's overall performance. The other 50% is the pilot's ability. This is assessed by the flying training staff. Resolution of problems that may arise in the inter-relationship of these two main factors, are among the skills of the aviation medicine specialist. The retirement age, therefore, is something that also falls within the aviation medicine remit. The Joint Aviation Authorities Medical Subcommittee (now LSSTMed) has therefore a legitimate interest in this topic.
Dr Ian Perry Consultant in Aviation Medicine London, UK
Source: Flight International
