Ask Captain Lim

Hi Capt Lim,

I am an Electronic Engineer, graduated in 1999 and 28 years old now. My life time dream is to become an airline pilot. After graduation, I went for an interview with SIA once and twice with MAS. All of them turned me down even before they gave me a chance to prove my ability and my interest in becoming a pilot. I did sit for the psychomotor test once and managed to pass it.

The main reason for the rejection was because I was short by 1 cm according to MAS standard (163 cm) and 3 cm by SIA standard (165 cm). I am 162 cm tall.

My job requires me to travel extensively throughout South East Asia. I have noticed that there are many pilots, including captains of Boeing 747s who are shorter than me.

Please clarify whether there there are any International Standard for height of the pilots, either set by the UK CAA, FAA or any other governing bodies. When I browsed the Web, none of the relevant bodies highlighted the height requirements.

I need your kind explanation on this matter.

Regards,

Kumaran

Hi Kumaran,

As far as I know, there is no height restriction in order for one to be issued with a professional pilot licence, either by the UK CAA, the FAA or any governing bodies. However, airlines on their own, may impose their requirements. So it is a matter of company policy. If you choose to fly for general aviation, your height of 162 cm is not a problem at all.

I wish you all the best in your future flying endeavor.