INTER-SERVICE TRANSFER
Transferring from a Non-USAF Service to the Air Force Reserve brings some additional considerations, such as aeronautical orders, training, etc. This page aims to answer some of those questions, but you can always contact the PCC for any clarification or additional questions.
Accessions
All Non-USAF commissioned officers will work through an Air Force Reserve Officer Accessions (OA) Recruiter to initiate the process of a seamless transition to the AFR. The OA will assist with any administrative tasks and initiate the scroll process.
Click below to read more on the ARPC Accessions page:
Aeronautical Ratings Board (ARB)
All Non-USAF aviators will meet an aeronautical ratings board to assess the transfer of aeronautical orders from your current service to the AF Reserve.
If you are non-Air Force military pilot/aviator, you must undergo an Aeronautical Ratings Board (ARB). An ARB is required by AFMAN11-402 for all rated, prior-service (non-Air Force) officers and commissioned warrant officers. This review ensures prior-rated applicants were not disqualified from aviation service, were never involved in any aircraft accident or mishap (or provides statements on the incident), reviews your qualification history, and awards you the appropriate rating and establishes your Air Force aviation service date. In accordance with AFMAN11-402 paragraph 4.9.5., if an applicant has been in the military within eight years of the date of request, the applicant “may request waiver of the requirement to appear before an Aeronautical Rating Board. The applicant must submit documentation showing completion of training that is equivalent to USAF undergraduate flying training and satisfies all requirements.” This is referred to as an “ARB Waiver.” Please contact Kim Coley at HQ AFRC (kimberly.coley.2@us.af.mil) to initiate the process.
Training
The information below is a basic guideline. Each situation is different and your training may need to be assessed by the AF Reserve to determine what training may be required for accession.
ARMY ROTARY WING
- Army Helo Pilots desiring AFR Fixed Wing – Pilots that are Army Rotary Wing and deisre USAF Fixed Wing will need to apply for and complete USAF Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) as the USAF does not accept Army Rotary Wing training as equivalent training for fixed wing platforms. The process for applying to UFT can be found HERE
- Army Helo Pilots desiring AFR Rotary Wing – If you are a helo pilot looking to join a USAF Rotary Wing unit, then usually only aircraft specific training will be required.
NAVY, COAST GUARD or ARMY FIXED WING
- The type of pilot training and the aircraft you are/were qualified in will play a role in what you are eligible to fly in the AF Reserve. Most initial fixed wing pilot training is transferable, but may not qualify you to fly all of the AF Reserve Options.
- The ARB will determine what experience is transferable