AggiePilot

I have a very similar question to Shadow's. Would flying gliders for 4-6 years prior to retirement kill my shot at airlines?

From flying C-130, T-37, and T-6 I have:

3500 Hours turbine
2400 PIC
1800 IP
1700 Multi
800 Multi PIC

I am AGR T-6 IP now, but do not have career status (met AGR Review Board last month, do not know results). My unit is supposedly converting AGRs to ARTs starting next FY. A similar plan to convert our AGRs to ARTs was in the works last year, but went away. No word on how the conversion will work. I have 14 years of active duty and at the end of my first AGR order will have over 15. I do not want to be an ART because I want to get my 20 and be done with the AF.

AGR glider position open at USAFA. If (not sure how big of an if it is) I got hired, I think I get automatic career status and my four year assignment wold take me into sanctuary (cue harps and rejoicing angelic throng). But then what kind of job does a retired glider pilot get to support large family.

Thanks for the Advice,

AggiePilot

HuggyU2

I'm guessing that as a glider pilot, you should plan to do an MC-12 tour about 2 years into the tour,... and a couple of years later do an E-11 tour. Or vice versa.
I don't believe the major airlines will rank you very high with 6 years of soaring without that powered time... although it sounds like a lot of fun.
Certainly, there are some on this forum that would know for sure
Good luck Aggie,... and Hook 'em (... and the students too).

hawgdriver

Aggiepilot:
You need to be current in flying turbine PIC to enhance your chances to get hired. I would not recommend flying gliders prior to applying to airlines. Things could change but I'd stay away from them