A Comparison of Military and Civilian Sector Pilot Careers

Abstract : This report provides an economic comparison of military and civilian pilot careers. We acknowledge that individuals have certain psychic factor which are important to them. However, we feel that the economic factors presented in this research explain most of the behavior shown by individuals. The Air Force provides excellent career opportunities. The compensation and benefits available to officers compare very favorably with those of an average non-flying private sector job. However, a direct comparison of pay and benefits between the two flying careers shows that the Air Force does not compare as favorably with the major airlines. Not only are we lower in terms of compensation but we also face problems in almost every non-pecuniary job characteristic. If a pilot can provide sufficient income or savings during the uncertainty of the first few years with an airline, it would be a rational choice to separate from the Air Force. The information provided in this report may be used in two ways. First, to allow each individual pilot to make a well informed choice about whether or not to remain in the Air Force. Second, this information can be used by Air Force policy maker to provide programs and policies which will allow the Air Force to compete in the marketplace for trained pilots.