Japan is expecting more international visitors in the run-up to the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Tokyo, but many airline pilots in Japan are almost ready to retire. Japan's transportation ministry plans to change mandatory retirement for commercial pilots from 64 years of age to 67.
Along with the 2020 Games, the entry of more budget carriers into the airline market is expected to lead to an increase in demand for pilots. Many commercial pilots in Japan are scheduled to retire around the year 2030.
The ministry made the decision on Friday to cope with the expected shortage of qualified pilots in the near future. Officials said pilots aged 65 or older will have to undergo stricter health check-ups than their younger colleagues. The ministry will limit working hours for older pilots, and they will be required to fly with co-pilots under 60 years of age. The new age limit is expected to take effect in April.
◆in the run-up to ～に先駆けて
◆mandatory retirement 定年退職
◆budget carriers 格安航空会社
◆undergo 制作する
◆health check-up 身体検査、健康診断
◆co-pilots 副操縦士
◆take effect 実施になる
