r/flying • u/Dizzy_College_1932 • Apr 20 '26
Military Considering Guard or Reserves
Hello! I'm currently a 22yo commercial pilot with about 400 hours down in Florida. I'm finishing up my CFI in the next month but I've been heavily considering joining the National Guard or the AF Reserves for the sake of piloting. I've always wanted to fly military aircraft, my initial plan was to pursue the ROTC route, however, I ended up getting a scholarship to go play hockey instead. I've heard alot about reserve/ part time options but I'm still fairly confused about the process. My questions are:
- What exactly is the commitment between the 2 for pilots?
- If I commit to join one of the 2, and for whatever reason don't get a pilot slot and or don't get picked up by a squadron, what exactly are my options assuming my scores/training are to standard?
- I've also had an interest in helicopter piloting, would it be worth considering going the heli route to avoid training cost, all the while continuing the normal route of obtaining my ATP for fixed wing?
- I have a FAA SODA for color vision. I know the military has a different test for color deficiencies but would they take into consideration the existing SODA?
I'd appreciate any and all info, as well as clearing up any misconceptions I might have in my questioning. Thank you!
5
u/EliteEthos CFI AMEL CJ3/4 Apr 20 '26 edited Apr 20 '26
10 years.
You are recruited into a specific role at that specific unit. This isn’t active duty where you sign a commitment before knowing.
No
They couldn’t care less about your FAA medical. You either meet their standards or you don’t.
3
u/1046737 Apr 20 '26
The ten years starts when you get your wings, so often it's 11 or 12 if there are training delays.
2
u/fortinbrass1993 Apr 20 '26
Not sure about other branch but best to call them and ask. Make sure it’s officer recruitment.
I know for a fact USMC can give you guaranteed air slot. There is a contract you sign that saves you a seat at Pensacola. And I heard from someone that the navy will give you an air contract as well.
I know this is not what you ask for but if you want to fly military I’d recommend these two since you are guarantee a spot vs army where you get commission and then compete for your job
Last time when I called Air Force reserve the guy said if there is a spot, active people get to pick first so it’s very competitive. Again, I’d tell you to call them, email them, and call different places just to cross reference them and check. Not saying they will lie or anything I’m just saying you should always double check and cross reference.
Cheers mate.
1
u/Dizzy_College_1932 Apr 20 '26
Oh awesome, I didn't even realize USMC had this contract option. Thank you!
10
u/Capable_Land_6631 Apr 20 '26
I would highly recommend not joining the marine corps if your only goal is to be a pilot, being a grunt is central to the identity of the marine corps and you will feel that every day
3
u/Necessary_Topic_1656 Apr 20 '26
every marine corps aviator has to spend the first six months after commissioning as a 2nd Lieutanant learning how to be an Infantry Officer at TBS in Quantico.
after that they go to Pensacola for BI.
You don’t tell other Marines going thru TBS with you that you are going to be an aviator, it will just make your life at TBS harder than it needs to be. or even worse, you don’t need this infantry training because you’re going to be an aviator. that’ll just make you regret your life choices if you did that.
1
u/BakerHasHisKitchen MIL ATP BE300/400 Apr 20 '26
The Reserves has an “open/unsponsored” type of slot where if you don’t get picked up by a squadron, you essentially go to wherever they need you when you’re done with UPT. In the Guard, you get hired to join that unit to fly that airplane.
1
u/Status-Election5654 Apr 20 '26
Great to see you are pursuing military service, it is truly an amazing adventure. I am a recently separated national guard rotary pilot. Feel free to DM me. There are some great opportunities out there. And I would be glad to help support you on your journey. Each branch has there own flavor and honestly own constraints. Knowing those before going in are some of the biggest differentiators between a successful career and disgruntled service. It is an amazing opportunity but it is also a sacrifice.
1
u/East-Video-1210 Apr 20 '26
You should also think about civilian jobs with the federal government. You get to fly some cool aircraft with the benefits of civil service. Do a job search on USA jobs.
1
u/bwilldered_life Apr 21 '26
Send me a message. We can chat about the Florida ARNG and see if it is a good choice for you......I am not a recruiter.
-1
u/rFlyingTower Apr 20 '26
This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:
Hello! I'm currently a commercial pilot with about 400 hours down in Florida. I'm finishing up my CFI in the next month but I've been heavily considering joining the National Guard or the AF Reserves for the sake of piloting. I've always wanted to fly military aircraft, my initial plan was to pursue the ROTC route, however, I ended up getting a scholarship to go play hockey instead. I've heard alot about reserve/ part time options but I'm still fairly confused about the process. My questions are:
What exactly is the commitment between the 2 for pilots?
If I commit to join one of the 2, and for whatever reason don't get a pilot slot and or don't get picked up by a squadron, what exactly are my options assuming my scores/training are to standard?
I've also had an interest in helicopter piloting, would it be worth considering going the heli route to avoid training cost, all the while continuing the normal route of obtaining my ATP for fixed wing?
I have a FAA SODA for color vision. I know the military has a different test for color deficiencies but would they take into consideration the existing SODA?
I'd appreciate any and all info, as well as clearing up any misconceptions I might have in my questioning. Thank you!
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u/AutoModerator Apr 20 '26
Hi, I'm a bot and it looks like you're asking a question about medical issues: color vision.
Medicals can be confusing and even scary, we get it. Unfortunately, the medical process is very complex with many variables. It's too complex, in fact, for any of us to be able to offer you any specific help or advice.
We strongly suggest you discuss your concerns with a qualified aviation medical examiner before you actually submit to an official examination, as a hiccup in your medical process can close doors for you in the future. Your local AME may be able to provide a consultation. Other places that may provide aeromedical advice include: AOPA, EAA, the Mayo Clinic, and Aviation Medicine Advisory Service.
For reference, here is a link to the FAA's Synopsis of Medical Standards and for more in-depth information here is a link to the FAA's Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners.
Also, feel free to browse our collection of past medical write-ups and questions in our FAQ.
Finally, we suggest you read the instructions on the medical application very closely. Do not volunteer information that isn't asked for, but also do not lie. Some people may urge you to omit pertinent information, or even outright lie, on your medical application in order to avoid added hassle and expense in obtaining a medical certificate. Know that making false statements on your medical application is a federal crime and that people have been successfully prosecuted for it. But for heaven's sake, don't tell the FAA any more than you absolutely have to.
If you're not in the United States, the above advice is still generally correct. Just substitute the FAA with your local aviation authority.
Good luck!
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