Heavy contract training pilots — that’s heavy as in how much they weigh, not what they’re flying — for a US Army helicopter course have filed a lawsuit as a result of the Army’s attempt to limit their weight to 250 pounds:

Aside from the union, the suit was filed by six flight instructors whose weight ranges from 252 to 272 pounds, including their flight suits and boots. None of the men would be eligible to continue working if the rule takes effect, the complaint said.

The Army’s logic includes:

Court documents filed by the Army say the rule is needed partly because heavier pilots increase costs since more fuel is required to keep them aloft.

One of the complainants admits that point is true, but notes heavier pilots are paired with lighter ones.  Still, stories abound about heavyweight aircrew and having to offload fuel or cargo to accomplish a sortie, particularly on a hot day.

In the end, it may simply come down to the government’s ability to modify a contract.

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