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Husky posted an update in the group
2 months agoAir Force Pilot Training (IFT, UPT, IFF, & FTU) So that letter is heavy, no doubt.
For context, this has happened before back in 2005-2010. What was true then appears to be true now:
– that the bad deals tend to fall hardest on the REGAF (active duty). Usually the ANG does a pretty good job of protecting it’s spots so the cuts come from allocations that REGAF pilots would have competed for.
– It pays to be a winner. There’s something sacred about being number 1. Even in the most challenging times AETC tries to give the top graduate their #1 choice
– This will pass
So what to do about it?
– So if my heart was set on fighters I would update my strategy to stay with my ANG applications longer before I switched to OTS.
– If timeline or situation put me on the REGAF UPT path, then I’d do everything possible to make myself ready to win. Acrobatic time, Instrument time and just getting ready to work harder than anyone else.
– Lastly if I was couldn’t win UPT, I’d stay on as a FAIP and wait for the pipeline to heal. Most of the 05-10 FAIPs ended up in fighters.
Cheers!
Husky
Allen, Derek and 4 others4 Comments-
@Husky what are you referring to when you say “FAIP”?
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@Allen FAIP= First Assignment Instructor Pilot. This occurs as part of the assignment process. When your drop occurs post Pilot Training there will be a cadre of graduates that stay behind and teach for their first assignment. This typically last three years. It could be in the T-6, T-38 or T-1A. I know several of my buds that I flew fighters with that were “FAIPs”. They ultimately still got their choice, but the USAF needed them to instruct.
You can see right now that with a shortage of IPs, the number of FAIP drops will likely grow for a while. These assignments ebb and flow. In each assignment you must count your blessings. No deployments, focus on flying, and your time towards retirement or ADSC (Active Duty Service Commitment) counts down.
I agree with Husky…it still gets you there.
“This too will pass”
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In normal times FAIP is usually less desirable. But when there aren’t a lot of fighter slots some pilots will FAIP and hope for a fighter after their time as a FAIP. Historically the technique has had good success.
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