I know several backseaters who work for regional airlines...and have not been able to make the jump to the majors.

Basically a backseater is on the civilian-track as far as an airline career.

There are a few potential benefits...

- It might be fun.

- Military pay is good, so that and maybe the GI Bill can pay for your civilian ratings.

- You can work on civilian ratings at or near most duty stations, except for the real hardships tours (sandbox). If you STAY SINGLE and devote your free time you could get all your ratings and then work as a CFI before your AD obligation expires.

- You will get to know some pilots who will likely end up in the airlines and can provide you with a recomendation. This is especially true for guard/reserve.

- You might be able to upgrade to pilot. Most services have allowed this at one time or another.

- After you leave AD and start the airline career, the guard/reserve can provide supplemental income and a fall-back position.