Question about entering reserves....

[CapnVegetto]

I'm possibly interested in signing up for the Air Force reserves, and shooting for a pilot slot. However, there are two problems: my age, and my eyes. I'm 27 years old, which I know is under the limit, but being close to it I know can't help me, and 2, I have a color vision waiver, (can't read the little numbers in the f-ing dots), and I have 20/40 vision. Do I have a shot to get into heavies, (C-130, C-5, etc.) or is it a waste of time to even try. Help!

Thanks for your service and advice!

 

[CCDiscoB]

Always try. When the first recruiter says no, find another one, etc, etc. But, you need to get on this ASAP. A pilot training slot could be over a year away.

As far as the color vision thing, not good. The 20/40 is waiverable, if 20/20 is even a requirement anymore, not sure, but color vision is a tough one. I'm not sure what the AF says anymore, but it used to be non-waiverable. I remember the initial flight physical, not an easy color test, and they don't use the little books the FAA docs use either. Good luck, don't take no for an answer.

 

[HoursHore]

Color Vision is a show stopper, however, I have heard of people studying the plates being able to pass the test. The AF just changed to a new test, which had a plate that I saw and just said " I don't see anything" I don't know if its a control or what, but I have never shown any color blindness at all. Don't let anyone know you have waiver. You might be able to get to the physical and pass it.

Any way, run a google search, maybe you can practice for the test online. (Don't click on the first link Google brings up if you type color vision test, trust me) also begin calling up reserve units and talk to them about applying for a UPT slot. If they hire you they will hook you up with the recruiter. Baseops.net has adds for ANG/AFRES slots, as well as a forum with ALOT of people who have gone thru this process.

 

[b747dogg]

What are the restrictions on color blindness for FAR 121/135 flying????

 

[dudemize]

CapnVegetto,

You absolutely need to get the process started ASAP if you want to do it. There is a lot that has to happen. You have to be started at UPT prior to your 30th bday which means you have to find a unit, get all the paperwork done, take the AFOQT, Class I physical, get through OTS (Officer Training School-12 weeks of fun and excitement). You have time, just no delay! I would say AF Reserve would be your best bet, most guard units I know of are hiring for UPT slots 2-3 years out, but still worth checking into.

The color thing will be a problem, cause even if you pass the Class I physical you will still have to undergo more stringent color vision testing at Brooks AFB prior to reporting for UPT. As stated above the AF is using some different kind of color vision testing now due to people just memorizing the old plates. Good luck!