Hello, was thinking about flying fixed-wing. I don't quallify for the 21 program. I have a B.S. Aeronautical Science with 325hr total commercial instrument, AGI, & IGI. I am 25yrs old, good physical shape, eye sight-20/70 uncorrected. Right now, what are my chaces of getting a pilot slot after OCS? If I don't get a slot the first time around, how many times can I apply per year? What is the deadline of applying for a slot? Is it an age limit, an amount of times , or something else?
I called the recruiter an asked, "how badly are you hurting for pilots?" and he replied, "not bad." Then he added, "after OCS you can role the dice and see what happens", which was a little ambiguous. So, I thought I would ask around and see if anyone had anymore insight as to how many slots needed to be filled and what the chances were to get one from someone else on the inside. Thanks duckcop!
Based on what you posted you're chances seem great, especially for fixed wing. We are desperate for fixed wing pilots right now. However, the hardest part is not getting accepted to flight school, that part is actually quite simple especially with your credentials and the current need. The hard part is getting selected for OCS. You're degree in aviation will not make a difference either way there, the only thing that matters for acceptance to OCS are things such as your GPA, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, personal awards and achievements, and overall life experience, also one very important element is the actual face to face interaction you will have with an officer interview panel. So the short answer is focus on getting to OCS first, then once you are selected that is when your degree in aviation will help you out in getting to flight school.
Your chances of becoming a pilot are probably somewhat better than any other Officer Candidate going through OCS who does not qualify for the Blue 21 or AVCAD programs. When you take the ASTB at OCS, you should be able to score higher than most candidates who do not have any aviation experience or education. Only two or three candidates are selected per class, so you will want to do the best you possibly can on that test.
A few of my peers have gotten picked up, so I asked them, well one in particular, about the program state. As it stands now there is a limited number of people getting picked up straight out of OCS or the Academy. However as of the last year or so approximately 90% applying are getting picked up after their programs. Again this isn't official, but it's better than nothing.
And remember, many people are not selected on their first attempt into OCS. If not selected don't lose hope. Just work on strengthening your package for the next board and never give up!! Perseverance my friend, perseverance.
Ok, I went to the recruiter and the airdale said that with my background and degree from Embry-Riddle, I have a 99% chance of getting picked up. As for the availability of platforms, he said fixed is at 104% of pilots to platforms. Getting a rotory wing would be a much better chance for me. But I don't mind either way. Thank you all!!!
