When can I….

Candidates often have these great questions about timing of the major transition points in a career. I’ll talk about this in depth on 21 Aug, but let’s cover some wavetops now.

Things to keep in mind, UPT slots and upgrades (to instructor pilot, mission/aircraft commander, etc.) are the most precious thing a squadron can bestow. If they spend the time and money to upskill you they want a return on that investment. As a rule of thumb, six years for a UPT slot, two years for an upgrade.

Also, no one wants to hear that you hold a candle for another. So while it’s understood that you’ll need a second career, when you’re in the squadron building, your focus is on the squadron.

So you get hired by the 777th Flying Squadron at location X, when can I:

Go part time? Airlift 6-24 months , Fighters 3+ years. Airlift gets six months of seasoning orders, and fighters get close to three years. Both would really love you to stay full time until you became and instructor pilot (3-4 years). Why? By then you have consolidated your skills and can now rely on that experience for your career; also you can give back to the unit as an IP.

Move to location Y? Your family lives elsewhere and you want to be a commuter. Soonest? as soon as you go part time, Latest? Well, some squadron have a no-commute policy, but I would say after your instructor upgrade is a good middle of the road.

Switch Units? If that unit gave you your UPT slot – six years. If you were already rated (came from active duty), 36 months. Now, CAN you leave earlier? Sure, but you’ll have to answer the question, “why did you leave the 777th so soon?” the rest of your career.

Start with the Airlines? As soon as you are part time.

Standing by your questions either here or on the 21st

Cheers!

Husky