time commitment

[hermair52]

I was curious about the realistic time commitment of doing the Reserves and Airlines. I'm looking at accepting C-130 slot, and currently fly the CRJ at a regional. I know being activated throws off the commitment question, but id there a difference between C-130 flying (tac unit) and tankers (I would assume there is). I'm 27 now, be about 30 when training finishes, and am curious if I'll still be able to have a life outside of flying. There are many reasons to do th Reserves, one of the reasons is stability in my flying career. Is it worth it...I think it is for many reasons...I just want to hear some comments. Thanks

 

[Primo]

Hope this helps

I hope this information helps. Your situation is almost identical to mine except I am a few year ahead of you.

I joined the Air National Guard while in college and worked as a Crew Chief on the KC-135. The sole impetus of taking this job, aside for money for college, was to be around the pilots and eventually attain a pilot position. I finally met this goal upon graduation, but was subjected to a long wait because of the elimination of the Nav position. I dont know how much you are familiar with this aspect of the Tanker, but in 96' they began phasing out the Nav position. My Unit, and I can only assume others, offered up UPT slots to those Navs under 35(I think that was the age) who were interested. As you can imagine there were alot of takers. I was only 22 at the time, so I was forced to the back of the line. The Guard only gets a few slots a year due to their funding sites. Me being the youngest of large group did not help.

I waited around for a year completing Officer's training and Flight Screening, Hondo was still open, but never entered UPT. I took matters into my own hands and shotgunned resumes to every Guard unit I could find, plus 1 Reserve Unit...Only because it was right across the runway at PIT. Long story short, I was picked up at the Res. Unit and was in UPT 3 months later. I have been flying the Herc since 99'.

I also was hired by the airlines in 99' flying the RJ. I can honestly tell you that flying for both has been the best decision of my life. Not only have I been able to log PIC in both planes, but I am getting both Civilian and Military time. Plus, flying for a Reserve unit is like no other flying you will do. Low level tactical flying...there is nothing better...250kts at 300ft??? Is there anything better?

Now, there are some draw backs. You have to be willing to accept the commitment. I have been in 12 years and experienced both enlisted and commissioned life. I have worked on and flew the planes, but never been asked to partake in a war. Until now. My Unit is activated for a year and I am currently overseas. I would not change a thing, but everyone is different. There is a real possibility that you will be asked to drop your current life and deploy for an extended period of time. Just be informed about your decision. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. I will help you with any questions you may have. [email protected]