Exxon maintained a corporate policy that prohibited its pilots from flying corporate aircraft after they reached 60 and forced such pilots to retire involuntarily at age 60. This rule mirrored a rule the Federal Aviation Administration applied to pilots flying for commercial airlines. Based on the age 60 rule, Exxon forced at least three pilots to retire in 2006 and 2007. The EEOC brought suit on behalf of these pilots and others, alleging age discrimination. Exxon argued that the requirement for pilots under age 60 is a bona fide occupational qualification.

Analysis

Do you agree with the age limitation? Why or why not? What Act is implicated here? What would be the outcome if this prohibition had been against headscarves or beards? What Act would be implicated under either of these scenarios?