Is it realistic to try when you're older?
I’m a former AH-64 pilot and a Army Captain that is finishing up his engineering masters degree currently I also have my commercial pilots license and CFI, however I would love to fly fighters in the Air National Guard. My biggest concern is that I am 32 now and turning 33 later this year. Is it too late for me to try? What has been everyone’s experience with older hires in the Air National Guard?
brady-hogoboom6 Comments
Hey Chase,
Good question! Age is often a topic of conversation for people looking to get hired into the ANG or AFRC. Especially those people with a significant amount of previous life experience, not unlike yourself. Unfortunately, the current age limit to begin pilot training is 33 years old. Waivers are not unheard of, but are rare occurrences given the long training footprint. Ultimately, each ANG and AFRC unit will have autonomy over their hiring process, and thus, whether or not they will entertain age waivers.
My advice; Seek out units who are willing to entertain age waivers. You can do this by looking at their qualification requirements listed on their job posting on BogiDope job board. Or you can call or email the hiring POC directly to ask whether or not they will entertain age waivers.
Secondly, target ANG and AFRC units whose mission type and airframe complement your Apache experience! You have a lot to offer a unit whose primary role is Air to Surface or Close Air Support. I may leave your dreams of being a Raptor dude near the bedside. Even units who are transitioning from say an A-10C to F-15EX would be a good target for you. Units such as these are usually keen on retaining both the culture and experience of missions like CAS.
Best of Luck!
SIC
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Obviously the “attack” part of your resume would be interesting for some units.
I say “go for it” but know that you’ll have to be the right “fit” for the Unit.
Let me know how I can help with different ideas and strategies!
D.J.
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@D.J. As far as approaching for example an f15EX unit if an opening comes up, I have heard that most fighter type aircraft are far less likely to give age waivers. Sadly I would have been able to apply earlier when I was about 30, but I currently am getting my masters and about to finish up. How did people manage how long flight school is with a civilian job?
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I appreciate it! That does make sense to reach out to the units first to see if they would even entertain it.
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Chase,
I have personally seen (very recently) a 32 year-old Army Capt and Apache IP hired by a fighter unit on a UPT board. If the fit is right, there are units who will absolutely take a chance on you. The key right now with the drawdown of Army Aviation is to stand out among the rotary wing applicants. Let me know if you need help!
Smack
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@Smack-Meier I just saw this now, sorry but that would be great! I’m trying to reach out to units now to see if they would entertain a waiver, or if it is better to just apply? any help would be greatly appreciated. would it be cool to talk directly?
