72-year-old pilot files age discrimination lawsuit after losing job

NEW ORLEANS - A 72-year-old pilot has filed a discrimination lawsuit against his former employer that claims he was terminated and replaced by a younger pilot.

Albert H. Faulstick filed suit against Southern Tire Mart on Dec. 7 in federal court in New Orleans.

Faulstick was employed as a pilot for Southern Tire from July 2005 until Dec. 31, 2011.

In September 2011, Southern Tire purchased a new aircraft, which meant all Southern Tire pilots would be required to attend a three week training course regarding the new aircraft. The plaintiff made arrangements to attend the training course but the day before he was to leave, he received a telephone call from the owner that he would not be taking the course and that instead he would be reclassified as a “back up” pilot.

Faulstick was also told that his employment would be terminated at the end of the year. At the time of his termination, Faulstick was 72 years old.

According to the lawsuit, Faulstick was replaced with a younger pilot, who is believed to be younger than 40.

The defendant is accused of violating the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

The plaintiff is seeking an award of damages for lost pay, including back pay, front pay, compensatory damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of reputation, embarrassment, humiliation, liquidated damages, attorney’s fees, court costs, and interest.

Faulstick is represented by Thomas E. Loehn and Charles K. Chauvin of Boggs, Loehn & Rodrigue in Metairie. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:12-cv-02903