Reduced pilot age for STOL operations

KATHMANDU, May 22:It has been recommended to lower the age of pilots flying in Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) to 60 years.  The government established a panel of investigation led by Ratish Chandra Lal Suman to investigate the crash of Tara Air's 9N-AET, DHC-6/300 aircraft in Mustang on May 29, 2023. The age and experience of the pilot and co-pilot of the plane that crashed were taken into consideration in that sequence.

A 62-year-old pilot was in command of the crashed plane. The age limit for piloting planes to all locations in Nepal is currently 65 years. However, the commission determined that the risk of declining pilot performance with advancing age is substantial and suggested that the age limit for pilots flying aircraft at STOL airports be reduced to 60 years.

According to the report, good job will be done efficiently until roughly 55 years, after which capability will steadily drop. International regulatory organizations, according to Coordinator Suman, have corroborated this truth.

It has been urged that the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) conduct a scientific assessment of the pilot's physical and mental health, as well as records of previous mishaps.