Age 60 Study, Part 3: Consolidated Database Experiments
Abstract
This report was a primary deliverable from the research contract with Hilton Systems, Inc. on the FAA's mandatory retirement for pilots operating under Federal Aviation Regulations Part 121, the Age 60 Rule. The purpose of this study was to examine existing data to assess the relationship between pilot age, accident rate, and experience. Three existing data bases were integrated on a single computer platform: (1) the FAA Airmen Certification file, (2) the FAA Medical History file, and (3) the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident data base. The report presents a discussion of the methodological issues with studies in aging and reviews prior research. Limitations of utilizing these data sets are discussed. The methodological approach was developed from these considerations. Hilton Systems replicated and extended analyses from previous studies, including statistical analyses. The report describes outcomes from analyses conducted to answer a series of questions examining the relationship between age and accident rates for pilots holding Class I, Class II and Class III medical certificates. Recent and total flight time are utilized as a measure of risk exposure. The results present a converging body of evidence which fail to support a hypothesis that accident rates increase at or about the age of 60 years.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA286247
Entities
People
- Diane T. Hyland
- Edwin J. Kay
- Jim D. Deimler
- Regina M. Harris
- Robert S. Voros