I went from B-52 Gunner to Pilot. I know of 2 others that did the same. A few Boom Operators have gone that route as well. Get the college done and fly at the aero club on base. It is way cheaper than paying FBO prices. Good luck and enjoy the ride. THe job situation out here sucks right now

 

Congratulations and thank you for your service. I think it’s great that you have goals and an idea of what you want to accomplish. I think the order of your goals are sound and will serve you well. I was an NFO (Naval Flight Officer) in the Navy so I can relate to your situation in that you will not get credit for pilot time as a Loadmaster, however, you will gain invaluable experience working on a highly trained team utilizing CRM. You will also be in the unique position to converse with pilots who may also have aspirations of flying in the airlines. Begin networking, and stay in touch with them. I would recommend acquiring your civilian ratings as soon as you can via various military flight clubs. This is how I acquired my requisite certificates and time. It’s cheaper and usually you will have AD military pilots conducting the training, which is a huge advantage. My last recommendation would be to establish some good pilot mentors with the same goals you have. Don't forget to reassess your goals every so often because they may change, for example, you may decide to transition and become a USAF (or USN) pilot, apply for the state guard, etc. Best of luck and enjoy the ride.

 

As a current aero club instructor: we rent (all wet rate) C-172 for $70-$75/hour, C-182 for $99/hour and a Barron 55 for $205/hour. The cheapest plane elsewhere in the area is a C-150 for $79/hour. While not quite 50% of the cost off-base, we run about $20 to $30 less than comparable equipment. The planes are maintained well, and the aero club insurance covers members in aero club planes (no need for renters insurance). Membership (at least at this one) is restricted to active duty, retired, military dependents, military civilian employees or contractors.

Unfortunately, they're a dieing breed, but if you have a military aero club nearby they are a good deal.

 

I too am a former Load made pilot. Good luck bro... Make yourself stand out in a good way and when the time comes you will have guys lining up to help you succeed.

Get into a Guard or Reserve unit as soon as you can. Those guys take pride in raising up one of their own and almost all of them are airline pilots. Even if you don't go to UPT cultivate those relationships and someday they may pay off. I was able to call on guys from 15 years ago for recommendations and they were definately in a position to help.

 

Go for it bro. I was a crew dawg, 13 year tech before getting off of AD. 2 CCAF's, BS, and ATP later, now I'm flying for a regional. Living my dream at least.