ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)-- The Air Force recently announced the opening of two Regular Air Force FY24 Aviation Bonus programs – the FY24 Experienced Aviator Retention Incentive, formerly known as the Aviation Bonus, and the FY24 Demonstration Bonus.
Eligible active-duty aviators have until Aug. 1, 2024, to apply for EARI and the FY24 Demonstration Bonus; however, the program eligibility window will close early if the budgetary maximum number of contracts are met before Aug. 1.
Additionally, eligible Guard and Reserve aviators continue to have until Dec. 31, 2023, to apply for the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve’s current 2023 Aviation Bonus programs.
EARI builds upon the previous years' offers to deliberately shape and retain experienced rated officers to meet Air Force retention, training, and mission readiness requirements to maintain the lethality of the force. Information will be announced separately in the future regarding the Reserve Component offering the FY24 EARI.
“In today’s strategic environment, the requirement to preserve critical skills in our Air Force has never been more important,” said Maj. Gen. Adrian Spain, Director of Training and Readiness, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations at Headquarters, Air Force. “Specifically, aviation-related skillsets, formed through the crucible of combat and daily execution of high-intensity operations, is the foundation necessary to continue to effectively deliver warfighting capability to the Joint Force and the American people. Retaining these professional aviators’ experience and expertise within the Total Force is imperative in order to outpace future challenges that may emerge throughout the spectrum of conflict.”
EARI, combined with the Rated Officer Retention Demonstration Bonus, offers specific rated officers with experience in flying critical weapon systems, both monetary and non-monetary incentives to extend their service commitment. The monetary options range from $15,000 per year to $50,000 per year for contracts ranging from three to 12 years of additional service. Non-monetary options continue to include an assignment of choice, assignment declination, or remain in place.
EARI will be available for RegAF, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve rated officers. However, the Rated Officer Retention Demonstration Program will be only available to select RegAF rated officers.
Complete eligibility requirements and application instructions is available on the myFSS website Welcome Page at myFSS (or by copying/pasting the following link into your browser: https://myfss.us.af.mil/USAFCommunity/s/knowledge-detail?xid=34479)