Originally Posted by
4FrozenFans
Aircraft assignment is based on duty station. You provide the detailer a list of preferences for assignment, a "dream sheet", and then as you stated, needs of the service come first. If there is need everywhere then chences are good you can get what and/or where you you want.
In flight school, the determination of FW vs RW is made. I was fortunate and got to choose. I know many CG aviators who were simply told "your going helos." Once you get your wings you get assigned to an air station and that determines what particular airframe.
Example: you get winged as a FW aviator in Corpus Christi and you told the detailer you just want something on the east coast. It just so happens that Air Station Clearwater really needs aviators so you go there to fly Hercs. If both Cape Cod and Clearwater are equally in need, then the detailer might give you a call and ask which one you prefer; Hercs in FL or Falcons in MA.
Hope this helps.
If I had read a few posts back I would have known you are already flying in the Army
. As a DCA, you still provide the detailer your choices/preferences and they will assign you to an air station in need, taking into account your request as best they can. Once the first assignment has been determined you will get orders to the appropriate transition course, Hercs at CAE (Tampa) or Little Rock AFB, or Falcons/CASAs in Mobile.