The government's transport bureau has proposed that HK harbor pilots be allowed to extend their service until 68 years of age.
The proposal has been made to meet the needs of the shipping industry, reports 'The Standard'.
Pilots over 65 who have passed physical and mental fitness tests and eye examinations currently have their licenses downgraded, meaning they can only pilot vessels of less length.
It also proposed to remove the compulsory pilotage requirement for ships of between 1,000 and 3,000 gross tonnes that are heading to or leaving container terminals. The bill will be introduced to the Legislative Council on March 20, 2013.
Source: The Standard
