Originally Posted by
delatsen
After doing a lot of Googling and reading, it seems like it's still going to be insanely difficult for me to even have a shot at this but maybe it's still worth fighting for.
Hell Yes!
So does that make sense, or is it even possible? Would I have a better chance with ANG? I still think working as a UAV operator would be a cool gig (I'm a geek, so the level of sophistication behind the drones fascinates me) and I'd have no problem doing it, but if I still have any shot at getting into a fixed wing aircraft, I'd like to give it a go.
You have to start pilot training prior to your 30th birthday. If you want to do it, get it in gear and go apply. We just hired a kid that is 28.5 and are getting him into training. If they like you they can expedite anything. I think your best chance is going to be with the Guard/Reserve. They are rare but you can get an age waiver. A guy in my AMS flight was 31 heading to pilot training, actually didn't start until he was almost 32! My class leader started pilot training at 31 as well.....it's rare but can be done. Where there is a will there is a waiver!
As far as the knee thing, let the Doc's down at Brooks DQ you. If you want it bad enough, never DQ yourself!
Originally Posted by
delatsen
How does the age waiver work? Is that something I'd secure prior to joining the Air Force? If it's tough but possible, I'm willing to pursue it. It's something I want so if I have to fight for it, I understand and will fight like hell to achieve.
If you go guard, they will have to enlist you to go to Brooks to get a waiver. Now that enlistment is dependent upon you going to pilot training. So if you fail your medical you would be able to get out of your enlistment.
Originally Posted by
rickair7777
You would have to get the waiver before you get accepted into the military as a pilot, but I think they are very hard (ie impossible) to get right now. It depends on their needs. But no harm in trying, check out baseops.net for all the details (read before posting, unless you like getting flamed).
Maybe AD, but if a guard unit wants you they will fight hard for a waiver!