A Critical Look at the Pilot Retention Problem in the Air Force.
Abstract
In its little over 50 year history, the Air Force has experienced several periods of large numbers of pilots leaving the service resulting in critical pilot manning problems. Currently, pilot retention is one of the most serious challenges facing senior leadership. This paper will examine the similarities and differences between the pilot exodus of the late 1970s and the current situation. It is possible that lessons learned in the past can provide some aid in curing today's and projected future poor retention rates. Specifically, initiatives employed in the 1970s will be examined for their applicability today. Also, there has been a push in the last few years to identify the various reasons why pilots are leaving the Air Force prior to retirement age. The policies implemented to address these concerns will be briefly examined. Only time will tell how effective these initiatives will be in slowing the pilot exodus. The paper concludes with a look at potential problem areas in the retention struggle and a few possible courses of action.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA354269
Entities
People
- Lloyd A. Ballard
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology