Due to the public nature of this forum, I can't give specific numbers but this info came first hand from a Charleston buddy. Manning numbers are healthy on paper. The problem is that the types of pilots are very junior. The number of Instructor Pilots and some of the AD C-17 bases is jaw dropping low. I really mean it...JAW DROPPING LOW! They are heavy on co-pilots and the senior captains/junior majors are leaving because of separation/PCS (most guys are going UAVs or to Altus). A huge vacuum of experience has been created.

It will be interesting to watch everything unfold. Moose and I both received emails asking us to take a survey about how we felt about coming back on active duty. I recall using language in my response something to the effect of p!ssing into the wind. However, I admit that I will prostitute myself out for the right price. I just need to make sure I have my established line number with whatever airline I decide to go to (still haven't made a final decision yet...I likely will make it by the end of the week).