Careers in Aviation | New Horizons for Older Pilots 

Careers in Aviation Background 

For many professional airline pilots, the FAA-mandated retirement age of 65 feels premature. These pilots often say they feel sharper, more experienced, and more confident than ever. But regulations are firm, and each year, hundreds of highly skilled aviators step away from their careers in aviation feeling like they have more to give.   

Fortunately, the end of one aviation chapter can mark the beginning of another. Many retired airline pilots continue flying in other roles-often with more flexibility, less pressure, and just as much fulfillment. 

Career Options for Retired Airline Pilots 

• Corporate Aviation – Flying private jets or turboprops for companies or high-net-worth individuals. 

• Flight Instruction – Sharing decades of experience with the next generation of pilots. 

• Pilot Examiner/Check Pilot – Evaluating the proficiency and safety of pilots. 

• Part 91/135 Charter Work – Flying under more flexible operations (especially in helicopters or light aircraft). 

• Air Medical Pilot – Transporting gravely sick and injured patients to trauma centers. 

• Ferry or Demo Pilot – Delivering aircraft between locations or flying demo flights for manufacturers/dealers. 

• Aviation Safety and Consulting – Applying experience in risk management, audits, and safety programs. 

• Aviation Safety Inspector – Ensuring the skies are safe as an FAA employee. 

• Volunteer Flying – Missions with groups like Angel Flight or Pilots N Paws. 

But it’s not just former airline captains looking to take flight. Many traditional professionals approaching retirement or early semi-retirement are starting to ask: “Is it too late to become a pilot?” The good news? It’s not. In fact, some of the most motivated and passionate student pilots are over 50. For those seeking a meaningful, adventurous second career-or lifelong dream fulfilled-aviation is within reach. 

For Late Bloomers: How to Start a Flying Career After 50 

• Begin with a Discovery Flight – A low-cost, low-pressure intro to flying 

• Start Training for a Private Pilot Certificate – Flexible paths via Part 61 or Part 141 schools 

• Consider a Commercial License or Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Certificate – If your goal includes getting paid to fly, investigate roles like: 

• • Sightseeing tour pilot 

• • Demo pilot 

• • Aircraft delivery/ferry pilot 

• • Banner tow or glider tow pilot 

• • Pipeline/powerline patrol 

• • Part-time flight instructor 

• • Drone operator (unmanned aerial vehicles – UAV) 

Aviation isn’t just a career-it’s a calling. And whether you’re stepping down from the airlines or stepping up to pursue a lifelong dream, the skies are still open. With so many flexible opportunities available for older pilots, it’s never too late to find your place in the cockpit.  

Whether you’re a veteran pilot seeking one last mission or a lifelong dreamer finally chasing the sky, the aviation industry has room for you. While age can bring physical limitations, it also brings wisdom, focus, and the kind of calm confidence that makes for exceptional pilots.