Originally Posted by
js081285
Ive been seriously considering the AF here the last couple of weeks. The only thing stopping me is my girlfriend who I am serious with. Sounds like it is hard to beat though, would I rather build time making more money and flying better equipment, with the probability of govt retirement or build time flight instructing/ flying freight?
If you want to do it, don't let the GF hold you back unless she is the ONE...if so, marry her immediately. Let girlfriends influence your plans for the weekend, not your plans for life.
The USAF at least is making artificial jet fuel, so they won't be grounded if oil keeps going up.
Heavy guys fly almost as much as airline guys, depending on circumstances.
Fighter guys fly less, but it is mostly quality time, as opposed to AFCS in "newspaper mode". Majors recognize this and will readily 1000-1500 hour fighter guys.
Generally, a military officer will need to get promoted three times (to O-4/ major/lieutenant commander) in order to be allowed to stay in for 20 years to get the pension. The first two promotions are usually easy, but the O-4 promoton is more competetive. However it comes right about the time your training obligation expires (8-10 years), so it's a good time to leave if you want to, or don't get promoted.