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Old 22nd Feb 2002, 02:15
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Muff Coupling
 
Join Date: Dec 2001
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CR;. .Having seen / know some AAC who have come across over the last decade, I can offer a couple of thoughts.

The key word is "requirement".. . . .Sadly, it is that very word that has forced your hand to attempt the break. For all those young thrusting Captains aspiring to Apache conversion and Attack Sqn command, beware, the "requirement" of the AAC (dictated by the wider Army)is to feed the staff chain. No if's or but's. . .The "requirement" for DE Officer as QHI's and ETPS is paultry (5-7 max). Clearly, then, specialist aircrew (soon to be PA)is the way of the RAF and to a lesser degree FA. Any dreams of specialisation and extended flying tours for the boys are just that!

Your position on inter-service transfer is effectively on "requirement" (see QRs). As long as the other service has that requirement for what ever expedient at the time..and they want to take you..your are almost there. Hence, the wadge of A2 - B1 Rotary WO QHIs in the mid - late 90s and a couple of experienced, but capable line pilots as well. Essentially, at that time a gentlemens agreement between DAAvn / CAS and the relevent MCM/PMA's. However, when the flood gates opened, and student pilots in the APC cycle started began calling Binnsworth, the alarm bells sounded and the tap was turned off slightly.

The RAF currently has a shortfall of experienced pilots, so the "requirement" is there, and you will of course potentially save loads of dosh in training time, as well as bringing some wider experience to the party.

Worth bearing in mind that the AAC is in effect, also short of pilots! A mate in the org, tells me that they are short of Majors (about 10%) and a wagon load of DE Captains (35% as stated in your post), commissions from the ranks are being used as top cover. If all Officers are pilots...then by definition...regardless of wether they are shining desks as staff..there is a shortage..or does 2+2 = 5?

The question for you..will they let you go ahead of any "requirement" to complete terms of service or appointment? (Depends what rank and where you are?)Bearing in mind the higher the rank and staff appointment, the harder to backfill. First action is an up front cards on the table formal letter through your staff chain...then boat loads of form filling.

A rotary chap I know well, who came across, has not looked back. His only regret was not doing it sooner...not much help I know, just a few thoughts..good luck in whatever flying post you get drafted.
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