Who wants to work that long?

Sir - I have followed with interest the discussion about retirement age for pilots. What I find difficult to understand is why someone would want to work to the ages suggested.

Firstly, evidence indicates that life expectancy is significantly reduced as one extends a career beyond 60 (or even 55). Secondly, any extension blocks the promotion of junior crew.

No-one would suggest that aviation is "just a job", but there is still a world outside. To those who have given their lives to flying and enjoyed it, I say: "Let go, bask in a well-earned retirement, and let others have their chance."

Capt Paul Marskell

Kowloon, Hong Kong

Source: Flight International