Slightly off topic but relevant question....if you accept promotion to Sqn Ldr at age 36 does your 16/38 option point cease to exist and become a 44 option point? If so, and you still want to leave at 38-39 years old, do you then have to PVR with associated loss of Flying Pay?
I was in this position, albeit 16 yrs ago. However they just wanted me to extend one year to do three in post. I refused so they gave me 'acting' paid. I retired at my 16/38 on Sqn Ldr pension. And, incidentally, you retain the retired rank after a certain time, I forget how long.