Relationship of Airline Pilot Demand and Air Force Pilot Retention
Abstract
The airline industry has traditionally relied heavily on the pool of pilots leaving the military for its supply of jet aircraft pilots. Over the last several years, the military has drastically downsized its forces while the airline industry continues to grow. The purpose of this study is to provide a better understanding between the relationship between airline hiring and Air Force pilot retention. Using past airline hiring characteristics, military and civilian pilot trends, and forecast airline growth, the impact of airline requirements on Air Force retention is discussed. Additionally, the new military force structure includes increased reliance on the Air Reserve Component. A brief analysis of reduced pilot production and retention on the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard is included. Recommendations admit that, while a single, fix-it solution to pilot retention does not exist, there are many things personnel planners should consider. First and foremost, is the need to understand that pilot retention is a result of supply and demand. Other considerations include the need for a long term focus, replacing the pilot bonus with increased pilot flight pay, increasing pilot production and continued emphasis on quality of life initiatives.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA354254
Entities
People
- John H. Kafer
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology