5 Reasons you should NOT be an army pilot

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 ก.ค. 2024
  • These are 5 things you should definitely consider before deciding to become an army pilot. The road is long and can come with many moments where you question if you've made the right decision. These are 5 things you should consider before making that decision.

ความคิดเห็น • 201

  • @danielhodge2897
    @danielhodge2897 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +38

    Hi Damion... 30 year career Army Aviator here, enlisted Aviation and Warrant, retiring in a few months. Good video, bringing to light a few of the challenges of this career. I personally think a better title would have been, "5 things to consider" vs. "reasons not to.."
    - 10 year ADSO = What some folks don't realize is the Army finally just came online with the Air Force and Navy for Aviator ADSOs, 10 & 8 years respectively. This also takes you up to being looked at for CW3 and Major. Another part of the reason was retention, but it also costs significantly more to train each pilot on these newer complex aircraft than it did years ago. As any big, smart business, you have to get your money's worth. So, knowing more of the real reasons why, should help folks make educated decisions. Not just, "Oh man! 10 years!? Boo.." You have to think too, within that 10 years is a ton of different experiences you're going to gain. It will be flight time in many different places and scenarios... tons of things that civilian pilots will never get to do. But, if someone is just wanting hours, hours, hours, then it may not be the right thing for them.
    - Comparing becoming an Army pilot vs. an airline pilot is not really possible. No major airline is going to hire you because you got your PPL and have a few hours in a Cessna 152. If you went straight civilian route, you have to spend a LOT of money and time to get hours, and different ratings, to even start being looked at for a serious position. You can get started doing some small "puddle jumper" routes, making a few dollars, then eventually make your way up. Totally possible, but not really a comparison for being a "newbie" in either venture.
    - Especially from the Warrant side, no other program in the military allows you to get to do what you do, with only needing a HS diploma. When you think back to graduation day from flight school and everything you learned in a short time, then look forward to all the different things you're going to do, it's a pretty good deal overall.
    - Payday $$$ = I agree with you... as a new W1 or 2LT, you're not necessarily making a ton of cash. But as a comparison, you're not making $250K as a brand new civilian pilot either. It all takes a bit of time to work your way up. By the time you are a few years as a CW2 or CPT, it's not too bad. Also factor in health care and other benefits.
    - As I have told the many young Soldiers and NCOs that I've been mentoring and writing recommendations for... the Army is not interesting in making "Pilots". We are in the business of making "Combat Aviators". Yes, you become a pilot and learn and do, all of the same FAA things that pilots do. But you also become entrusted with the lives of others, the respect of the awesome multi-million dollar machine that you get to fly, and you are expected to be an expert at blowing up bad guys with missiles and rockets, dropping off the good guys right at the bad guys' front door so they can go shoot them in the face, pick up your wounded bothers and sisters in a hot LZ, and bring in supplies and cargo to the guys and gals on the ground.
    Military life is no comparison to similar civilian life. It's absolutely an adventure, with so many extra opportunities. The kids in the Army that sit around and bitch about how crappy it is, are the same ones that do nothing at all to reach out and better themselves... expect things to just happen to them. It's not for everyone, but can definitely be a great time and an awesome start to a future career, whether you do a few years or 20+. Great job bringing up those particular topics. I hope the few paragraphs above, help shed some more light on them and compare from a career & senior perspective. Keep the greasy side down - Dan

    • @merrittorius
      @merrittorius 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Great input. Enjoyed reading your perspective

    • @irisying4079
      @irisying4079 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good Evening Sir,
      I read your comment and had a few questions. I’m currently going through 91B AIT for Army National Guard. My drill sergeant told me about the opportunity to fly for the army after I told him about my interest in flying. What are some tips you could give someone that knows nothing about this field and is freshly in the army?

    • @wxlfgang9950
      @wxlfgang9950 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Im thinking of becoming an aviator I would Like to speak to you if possible

    • @linaaj2728
      @linaaj2728 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you for this information!

  • @TomP-148
    @TomP-148 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +38

    With the 10 year ADSO I don't even know why the board would kick back strong packets. Clearly those who are submitting are willing to do a 10 year commitment. "We DoNT KnOw wHY WE cANT gET PiLOTs."

  • @olentangy74
    @olentangy74 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    130 flight hours a year?! That is ten hours a month. 2 hours per week. In other words, just maintaining flight proficiency. Wow.

    • @jmmartin7766
      @jmmartin7766 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      We crew chiefs used to hate flying with pilots who didn't get a lot of "flight time," because they often took risks, at the end of the month, that bordered into 'wreckless territory.' (Once had a Cpt. who continued the training mission long after a pretty severe lightning storm rolled in on us. I had to threaten to "red x" my bird if he didn't set us down & the Lt. flying co-pilot agreed...)
      - We called those guys "desk jockeys"

  • @charlestredway8253
    @charlestredway8253 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You are so right!!!! Thanks for your honesty!

  • @Gun_sac.k64
    @Gun_sac.k64 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +20

    Flight school has been the best time during my military career. I was home every night, no deployments, TDY, etc.
    & extremely fun. Flight hour wise, it all depends what airframe you pick. As an AH guy, you will fly at least 140 hrs annually, as an instructor pilot, I’m flying up to 200 hours every semi-annual, it all depends on the track you choose.
    I do disagree with the 10 year ADSO, but again, if you were like me, a junior E5 looking for better opportunities and trying to make a career out of the military, then that 10 year ADSO doesn’t sound too bad.
    Experiences vary, & I have seen many people out of college struggle adapting to the army, because yes, the army will treat you like a child sometimes.

    • @nazarethbarker4937
      @nazarethbarker4937 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thats really cool to hear man and motivating. I'm putting together everything I need to go the Warrant officer route. I'm 25 now and am having some serious regrets over choosing to pursue finances and freedom from a contract/time with family over the experience of serving, and don't want to waste another 5 years and miss the boat. The 10-year commitment doesn't really seem so daunting to me when I consider a lifetime of "I wish I really would've have done this." Fortunately, my wife is super supportive of this choice I'm making. And is willing to suffer through the time apart with me. Right now, the only thing I'm trying to figure out is the references that the board is going to need from me, I've pretty much got everything else ironed out. Do you have any advice that could help me out in following in your guy(s) footsteps?

    • @claysoggyfries
      @claysoggyfries 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Well isn't flight school not even a part of the contract?

  • @garyleduc1591
    @garyleduc1591 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Really great Videos on becoming an army pilot and the 5 reasons not to. I just sent the links to my grandson who’s a senior in high school JROTC program. He’s just gotten his acceptance letter to the Citidel. I’m prior Navy reserve enlisted and a 2nd Lt. in the Army Nurse Corps for a short time. What you say makes perfect sense and I’m really happy I saw them at this time. Thanks so much for the timely and inside info. Sure beats making a mistake you’ll be sorry for later.

  • @Ottomannkahuna
    @Ottomannkahuna ปีที่แล้ว +22

    I respect your honesty Sir ✊🏼🇺🇸

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      🤌🏾

    • @Ottomannkahuna
      @Ottomannkahuna ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@damion_bailey the force is my family #enhancerhecorp❤️✊🏼🇺🇸

  • @user-br7ey8gm2k
    @user-br7ey8gm2k 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Whatever career path you'll have in the future I am SURE you'll excel. Thanks for the great job you're doing at the moment for all Americans.🙏🙏🙏

  • @greymatter5492
    @greymatter5492 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Super helpful video. Currently considering signing on, but the low flight time and low free time has me considering other branches. Thank you!

  • @novacain8433
    @novacain8433 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    True, the flight opportunities decrease with increased rank on the Branch Officer side. One caveat- you do fly as a LTC and COL when in command, but it becomes difficult to juggle with all your other responsibilities. 👍

  • @superlite177
    @superlite177 ปีที่แล้ว

    He is spot on. Wow great Vid.

  • @jmmartin7766
    @jmmartin7766 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I was a UH-60A crewchief (a long while ago) because my dad was an AH-1G Cobra pilot in Nam (got out as a CW2 or 3), and my grandfather was a P-51D pilot in WWII.
    Reason #1 is the *main* reason I didn't go to flight school. It was just too much time 'out of the real world' for me, and I didn't want to start and raise a family in the 'military environment.'
    Hell, imo, once you do SIX years, let alone TEN years, you might as well do twenty & retire... Then you'll still be young enough to start a new career, if you want to, or else actually enjoy retirement...
    * very based video. I appreciate it. Subbed

  • @Broc.M4
    @Broc.M4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    My dads been in the army for 29 years and yes,I could earn a lot more in the civilian life.But I love the military life and that’s all I want to do.I’m 14 right now but I’m planning on joining the Airforce and flying C17s or Blackhawks in the army.

    • @staciarn1
      @staciarn1 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Good for you and wanting to continue A Military Career

    • @jmmartin7766
      @jmmartin7766 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      As an Army vet who has AF vets in his family, I can tell you the air force has better facilities (i.e. dining, shopping, doctors, etc).
      But being a helo pilot is way cooler...
      Maybe I'm slightly biased, but that doesn't mean it isn't true
      *smirk😏

  • @gooddoggy3257
    @gooddoggy3257 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    In the Coast Guard, it used to be that if you ended a month with fewer hours of flight time than the number of days in that month you were being lazy.

    • @Borzoi86
      @Borzoi86 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      "Coastie" pilots are great. As as Marine, I trained a few USCG flight students when a flight instructor in the Pensacola complex. Prior to enlisting, I did interview all the branches but just never connected with the USCG recruiter due to their odd office address (pre-GPS days this). If I did it all over again, I would have joined the USCG: great aircraft, great personnel and always interesting missions.

  • @dustintaber
    @dustintaber 2 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Always heard that Army WOs flew the most out of any branch. Maybe that has changed. Thank you for the truth! I think it’s safe to say that I can scratch Army off my list of options.

  • @abbieamavi
    @abbieamavi ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Just finished my CFI for fixed wing, rested a day or two and then I got bored. Started looking into Coast Guard, now looking into ANG again, like I was years ago. Also Guard. Thanks for your videos!! Super informative and concise. Keep up the great work 💎

    • @copperwopper
      @copperwopper ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Abbie 🥰 I love your channel and your crackhead energy. If you ever decide to do street to seat I can help you with your packet ☺️

    • @abbieamavi
      @abbieamavi ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@copperwopper hi! Thanks so much for watching! I really appreciate that 😊 are you ANG?

    • @Borzoi86
      @Borzoi86 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Suggestion: If you do enter military flight training with any service, DO NOT volunteer the fact that you have a CFI. Keep you mouth shut and just perform above the norm and you'll excel. I say this having been a military flight instructor at Pensacola who flew with some excellent students who later told me they had a private pilot's license.

  • @ArtofFreeSpeech
    @ArtofFreeSpeech 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Hey there... retired W4 here. I thought this was honest and well done. I realize this is a video on 5 reasons you should NOT be an Army pilot, but one thing I would have included is the immense satisfaction and feeling of accomplishment one gets upon graduating from Army flight school. It wasn't the hardest school of my military career (close, though)... Green platoon was harder, and SERE was harder (at least for me), but the sense of accomplishment from any of the 3 individually tops everything I've done outside of the military combined.

  • @ryant654
    @ryant654 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    The army has trashed the Warrant corps.

    • @brianjungen4059
      @brianjungen4059 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Ummm...ok. Great detailed post there. 🤦‍♂️🙄

  • @Slcm02
    @Slcm02 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    As a CW2 in 69/70 in Vietnam. It was an honor to fly with my pilot friends. God Bless America

  • @JerryGeorgeMDiv
    @JerryGeorgeMDiv ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job

  • @coolcolin09
    @coolcolin09 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    Flight school is difficult, and your family does indeed need to be aware of the time you won't be able to spend with them. But I disagree with being "over" it by day 30 (considering there's 200+ traingin days). If you love flying, it's so worth it. There are millions of dollars of resources at your disposal at all times. Coming from getting a PPL in the civilian world before attending flight school, getting paid to fly a twin-turbine helicopter with simulators at your disposal whenever you want, I looked at flight school as an opportunity. Take advantage of everything available to become a great pilot...I personally loved flight school.

  • @Twe4ke
    @Twe4ke 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Correct about it being a retention issue. BUT, I know that they're supposedly looking at giving some solid bonuses to keep you retained. But we'll see.

  • @jalenheggs3422
    @jalenheggs3422 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I saw a full bird fly into my airport and I was like “your a rare breed ma’am” lol. But I’m going to army flight school in February. Also I already have my fixed wing license so I’m looking forward to expanding my knowledge once I get there

  • @aolson8283
    @aolson8283 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    In 2023, a 2LT at "Rucker" in flight school makes 63,430, not 53,920... you're off by quite a lot.
    64 semi annual requirements are 70 hours, 140 hours a year.
    I've never had the Army tell us not to fly for even 1 month, let alone 6 months liked you mentioned.

  • @terrydavid86
    @terrydavid86 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Reason 6. You don't get to wear traditional flight suits to feel like a military pilot 😢 (the only branch that has it as unauthorized)

    • @semiwandering295
      @semiwandering295 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      And that's why the army sucks in general And to fly for the bastards for 10yrs would really suck...btw... Do you have to fly active duty for 10 years? Or can you fly the rest of your time as a reservest?

  • @cepaasch
    @cepaasch ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Oh boy!!! Now I know why I had so many former Army pilots in the Coast Guard!!! I always wondered but this video made it apparent why so many prior Army meat servos came over to the CG.

  • @richardw2107
    @richardw2107 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks!

  • @AmericusMaximus
    @AmericusMaximus 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Nice job.

  • @winterwolf0186
    @winterwolf0186 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I thought about this career so much during high school, and after graduating, i didn't know what i wanted to do with my life once out to the real world just always once in a time i think about it and also think about i don't want to live rest of my life regretting something dream always been be a truck driver or probably could serve the time and then do what i want after getting out it does sounds nice retiring early while still young and still going trucking just still dont want regrets in my life.

  • @kylanharris8186
    @kylanharris8186 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very honest!

  • @demonchompy
    @demonchompy ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Sending this video to the army

  • @evantalbott8602
    @evantalbott8602 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you for these videos. I’m trying to do an inter service transfer from the usmc to the woft program. Passed sift and medical hopefully I’ll be able to submit for the next board.

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hell yeah! There’s one every single month

    • @jmmartin7766
      @jmmartin7766 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      (^^^) Just don't forget to stash some Crayola's in your flight bag for when you get hungry during a mission. The Army doesn't include them in their MREs (My brother is a former Marine)
      🖍️😏🖍️

  • @scottmonroe6522
    @scottmonroe6522 หลายเดือนก่อน

    As an ex Army AH-,AH-64 pilot I can unequivocally say that the Army blows chunks. They are ground pounders through and through.

  • @melvinelder3587
    @melvinelder3587 ปีที่แล้ว

    It’s funny because where I’m at currently. It’s all higher brass that flys. LTCs. Full birds… even a 1 star every once in a while. Lol

  • @appamaddox8190
    @appamaddox8190 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great!

  • @armyavi8tor
    @armyavi8tor 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I worked on 60s in the army, I wanted to do WOFT and opted just to get out.
    The way now if you can be selected as street to seat in the guard. I’m telling my son that it’s a good way to get rated and come back home without the big AD crap unless deployed. This way you can come back, work on your ratings at home and go work as an airline pilot and do your guard work as well. I wish I would have done it that way.

  • @joecambodia1326
    @joecambodia1326 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Join the guard instead.

  • @davidstratton4695
    @davidstratton4695 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    As someone who is about to enlist, Im trying to figure out what MOS to choose. I am a cadet at UNG Corps of Cadets ROTC Senior Military College, enlisting with the Nat Guard while I complete school. I have 3-4 options. O9R (enlisted and contracted cadet, kinda a filler MOS til commissioning upon grad. BCT is optional). 68W (Combat Medic) and 15T (Blackhawk Mechanic). I plan to commission regardless after grad as military is my next chapter after school but as far as deciding what to do that sets me up well both now and later is difficult. Bc the MOS I choose now (especially if I DONT choose 09R) will affect my branch down the road in BOLC. (Choosing 15T will give me a leg up in branching aviation but lessen my chance for medical and vice versa). What would you do?

    • @jmmartin7766
      @jmmartin7766 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I was a 15T when it was "67T." I loved it, for the most part, *once I got to a unit (101st) that had "crewchief slots."* And even then, you had a lot of 'military BS' in between missions...
      Before that, I was an aircraft mechanic on the ground for two years in Germany. I enjoyed it, but I was still 'on the ground'...
      One of my fellow crew chiefs once said it like this: "The Army takes everything that's fun, and makes it 'un-fun.'"
      I am absolutely glad I was in, and I *definitely* loved being an Army aviator. But, my friend was right.
      *Food for thought...

  • @acefighterpilot
    @acefighterpilot ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I knew I wanted to fly since I was 7 but as a teenager I was very afraid of signing away a decade of my life or six figure student debt. I decided to go to A&P school at age 18 instead. It cost me $15k all in, tools included, and a month after graduating I got a job making about 50% more than the entry level Army pilot. 8 years later, I love working on aircraft every day, my student debt is paid off, I bought my first house last year, and I'm getting ready to buy myself an RV-8 kit for my 28th birthday. When I was in school I was told 1/3 of A&Ps were 60 years or older and most of those guys have since retired during COVID. The demand now is unreal and you can easily make 6 figures off an associate degree as an A&P. I do still get a little wistful whenever I see a Blackhawk at the airport but I knew giving up my freedom for 10 years wouldn't work for me. Just something for young folks to consider if you want to work in aviation and make enough money to go flying on your own terms. Plus flight benefits if you go with the airlines.

  • @ronaldbell3788
    @ronaldbell3788 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Damion, long ago i dropped navy flight training because i found the math too tedious. I had a degree in English. Do army pilot trainees have to be good at math? Thanks for the honest and helpful information in your videos. 🙏🙏🙏

  • @keithbesherse6324
    @keithbesherse6324 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You are right. Army Aviation is too hard. No one should do it! 😂😂😂
    Seriously, know what you are getting into and know yourself well enough to know what is truly important.

  • @exquisitesquid4423
    @exquisitesquid4423 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    2nd year ROTC AV hopeful here, every time I hear about air force/navy aviation it makes me regret going army 😭😭

  • @dakotabrown6850
    @dakotabrown6850 ปีที่แล้ว

    What do you think of a civilian instructor transitioning to instructor in the army

  • @wavvy-zy5777
    @wavvy-zy5777 ปีที่แล้ว

    If you were to go back and re-choose which branch you would like to attend flight school in.Which would you choose?

  • @mitchjohnson9240
    @mitchjohnson9240 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    When I went to flight school in the 90s, it was like trying to get a drink of water from a fire hose.

  • @johnsondml
    @johnsondml 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I went in during the 80's rating was oh6 as a CWO coming from street to seat suck back in those days, got out in 2010

  • @timmytim1954
    @timmytim1954 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I understand completely what this gentleman is saying, however, the upside is that you're training and the aircraft your flying are the best and its free.

    • @miguelamedina2390
      @miguelamedina2390 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I agree with you. The Army will make you a 10 year commitment but will teach you how to flight dif hellos and that cost a lot. All AVs pilot I met in the Army do not regret it comparing with those that walk 12 mile in a road march, dealing with vehicle maint, office drama.....etc. At least you are flying....

  • @brandonmcginnis4610
    @brandonmcginnis4610 ปีที่แล้ว

    You can get them flight hours up in 160th sir. 😂 Also what do you think about BARRON'S Military Flight Aptitude Tests for studying?

  • @thomaswade3072
    @thomaswade3072 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What originally drew you to the Army and Army Aviation?

  • @rockbranchlaw7931
    @rockbranchlaw7931 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I was really looking into the warrant aviation officer route until the ADSO was increased 4 years. Absolutely wrong decision for attracting more pilots. Agree with you.

    • @danielhodge2897
      @danielhodge2897 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Hi there... 30 year career Army Aviator here, enlisted Aviation and Warrant. What some folks don't realize is the Army finally just came online with the Air Force and Navy for Aviator ADSOs, 10 & 8 years respectively. This also takes you up to being looked at for CW3. Another part of the reason was retention, but it also costs significantly more to train each pilot on these newer complex aircraft than it did years ago. As any big, smart business, you have to get your money's worth. So, knowing more of the real reasons why, should help folks make educated decisions.

  • @williamfielding7790
    @williamfielding7790 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    FYI, Chances are very slim that an airline will consider you if you are a rotary wing aviator without a heck of a lot other experience. There is little carry over from flying an Observation or Attack helicopter to flying an air transport category fixed wing aircraft. I'm not saying it is impossible, just a big stretch. Get dual rated and start banking turbine aircraft time.

  • @abbieamavi
    @abbieamavi ปีที่แล้ว

    Were you in aviation civilian side, prior to going to flight school?

  • @logan1889
    @logan1889 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Anyone who thinks that flight school was incredibly hard has not spent much time in a CAB.
    I would pay to be able to go back to flight school. You fly every day, no additional duties, no purposeless EUCOM rotations or CTCs, no FTXs, no PT during flight training. All the things you described that made flight school hard will continue when you start progression at your unit, including learning Air Assault planning, etc. It's even worsened by PL obligations (If you are an RLO) and RL progression.
    Just my two cents, experience may vary.

  • @marcuschambers9402
    @marcuschambers9402 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey Damion, I spent 20 1/2 yrs in the Army with 10 1/2 of that as a UH60 ADSO commercial rated multi turbine instrument endorsed,, Damion, you hit the jackpot with unit flying if you're really at 1000hrs in 6 yrs. I barely cleared 750 with 386 of that being combat hours from 2011 in Afghanistan flying MEDEVAC. If I could go back and choose to fly again,,, OH HELL NO!!!!! In the end state of ALL the service connected cervical and lumbar disc damage, the ARMY AND VA turned their back to me about having disc replacement surgery. The only place I have found so far willing to do the 4 possibly 5 lumbar disc replacement is in Germany. I used my civilian insurance as primary and Tricare as a secondary to get 2 discs replaced in my neck. Afghanistan in 2011 was intense with numerous hard landings under fire for CAT A urgent MEDEVAC requests....
    Since the flight hour program was lowered from 136hrs annually per pilot to 96 (THE OBAMA YEARS) there has been nothing but problems with incidents and accidents due to lack of experience in critical decision making or identifying the correct EP and correctly executing that EP. This will only get worse in time if they do not up the training hours for pilots experience. I would tell guys to stay away from Army aviation and look into another service like the Navy or Coast Guard if you have a 4 year degree and 500 flight hrs. Retirement wise W/O retired pay is comforting but nothing compared to the retirement plan that commercial air line guys invest in. So in a nut shell,,, people SHOULD NOT APPLY FOR ARMY AVIATION UNLESS THEY DO THEIR HOMEWORK TO DETERMINE IF THIS IS REALLY HOW THEY WANT TO GAMBLE WITH A CAREER WITH NO CHOICE BUT TO SHOW UP READY TO PERFORM NO MATTER WHERE THEY SEND YOU AND HOPE YOU DON'T WIND UP WITH ANY SPINAL OR OTHER BODILY DAMAGE.

  • @mmouseav8r402
    @mmouseav8r402 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I’m prior enlisted with nine years in, but working as a pilot for a legacy airline. Trying to go WOFT in the Army National Guard just to get the retirement.

  • @Blackcloud_Garage
    @Blackcloud_Garage 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    True, people have been pulled away from Army Aviation by the airlines but pay is not the only reason. DA treats its pilots (especially the WO’s) like crap. We always felt like everything else like inspections and additional duties were the priority, not flying. Leadership is more worried if your binder/area is ready for ARMS and less concerned about your flight time.

  • @hinnantp
    @hinnantp 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Have a retired LTC Blackhawk pilot working with me who’s a Database Engineer.. Me being retired Navy asked him when he hired on.. WTF… lol. Pretty much what you said about Commissioned Officers flying a desk most of their careers is why he retired..

  • @michaelshawusa1
    @michaelshawusa1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Flight school was the most challenging/stressful thing you've ever done? lol bro did you go to college for art or something?

  • @joecaldwell1993
    @joecaldwell1993 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    When you arent flying, what are you doing on a day to day basis?

  • @anthonypeterson5618
    @anthonypeterson5618 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My son is working on his fixed wing PPL VFR then IFR. will this help him reenter via warrant officer program? He med discharged from injury. Backup is use his benefits for commercial training afterwards. What do u think?

  • @matthewarnold6794
    @matthewarnold6794 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    You forgot to mention that the Army Aviation has Commissioned Officers and Warrant Officers. None of the others services have warrant officers pilots. As much as I love and respect the WOs, the splitting of responsibilities and "crossover" of leadership creates a weird command structure that the other services don't have to deal with. Anyone who has been in Army Aviation knows what I'm talking about. And, if I were 20 years old, and knew what I know now, I would join the Air Force.

    • @JesusSaves734
      @JesusSaves734 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm planning on enlisting air force. I'm 18 few months out of school. I know airforce gets the best housing food etc. But what specifically is so good about airforce Mos? From what I've heard ( I want to be a maintainer) some of the jobs are grueling long shift based sessions

    • @JesusSaves734
      @JesusSaves734 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for your service 👍

    • @SergeantSleepy
      @SergeantSleepy ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@oni293 don't be a maintainer.

    • @Borzoi86
      @Borzoi86 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I flew in both the Marine as a commissioned and later, in the Army Reserve as a CWO. Great pilots in both services. Let's face it: the Army always likes to stretch the buck. They knew they'd need thousands of Hueys for Vietnam. Plus, they knew that young men are usually fearless. "High school to flight school" was a master marketing stroke that accomplished two goals: pay as cheap as possible to stretch the budget and put twenty year-old men in command of a Huey. (As a reservist and CWO, I flew with some Army lieutenants that were largely clueless in the cockpit despite having won their silver wings. Good reasons why they never made PIC.)

  • @ChopperChad
    @ChopperChad หลายเดือนก่อน

    Not much in here is an apples to apples comparison. That year 2 UPS pilot pay comes after you already have about 8 yrs of full time commercial experience.

  • @Borzoi86
    @Borzoi86 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Reason six: Flying a helo when operating in a desert and you are wearing a MOPP-4 suit + restrictive gas mask. My worst experience ever as an Army Reserve Chinook pilot!

    • @ryanpotter2608
      @ryanpotter2608 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Since you were reserve, what is the 10 year commitment like? Is it still 10 years of active duty? I’m 20 looking into flying as a WO but i can’t lie this 10 year obligation is destroying my enthusiasm.

    • @Borzoi86
      @Borzoi86 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ryanpotter2608 Ryan, it ALWAYS boils down to the unbreakable law of Supply & Demand no matter which service you elect to join. When I matriculated through Navy flight school as a Marine 2Lt, our national tragedy in Vietnam was beginning to scale down. I did win my gold wings but only served a total of four years and eleven months on active duty! I then found both USMCR and USAR reserve units that allowed me to fly on weekends for another 20 years. (Thanks be to God!) Lastly, when I got off active duty in 1975 there was a glut of USAF pilots getting out and smoothly slotting into the airlines. NO airline would look any helo pilot no matter the number of hours nor the complexity of the machine flown. Plus. back then, the regionals only offered poverty wages for every pilot they hired. With a family to feed and a mortgage to pay, I couldn't afford to start an airline career back in the 1970s. (BTW: my civilian employer in high-tech absolutely hated the fact that I continued my military career as a Reservist. But that's a whole 'nother story for another time . . . )

  • @carango1798
    @carango1798 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Will they turn you away if you don't have 20/20 vision?

  • @josephpadula2283
    @josephpadula2283 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    My son is a perfect example of a HS grad that looked at WO pilot but rejected it due to time of enlistment .
    Even I as a Vet could not disagree .
    West Point grads only do 8 years and the last few just reserves if they go off active duty.

    • @scottbigelow4001
      @scottbigelow4001 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Not sure where you heard that, but current West Point grads have same ADSO (10 years) as everyone else.

    • @josephpadula2283
      @josephpadula2283 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      From West Point web site
      How long must I serve in the Army?
      You must serve a minimum of eight years after you graduate in a combination of Active Duty and Reserve Component Service. This mandatory service obligation is the nation's return on a West Point graduate's fully funded, four-year college education that is valued in excess of $225,000.

    • @scottbigelow4001
      @scottbigelow4001 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      That’s for most branches, but not if you branch aviation. I only know bc my son is a 2022 grad now at flight school.

    • @scottbigelow4001
      @scottbigelow4001 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Also, not sure if this point was made but the 10 year clock doesn’t start until after you graduate flight school, which is typically 15-18 months after commissioning (if you go the commissioned route) depending on what aircraft you end up in. So it’s almost a 12 year commitment really.

  • @Bullitt5423
    @Bullitt5423 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Would flight school be somewhat easier for someone who is already a helicopter pilot?

  • @bryannaranjo9145
    @bryannaranjo9145 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    How different is the flight time for warrant officers?

    • @ryant654
      @ryant654 ปีที่แล้ว

      Massive

  • @shujayethossain6554
    @shujayethossain6554 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What happens if you leave before 10 years?

  • @sociopathicnarcissist8810
    @sociopathicnarcissist8810 7 วันที่ผ่านมา

    How can you maintain flight proficiency at only 11 hours a month?
    Private pilot friends of mine want to fly at least 200 hours a year so that they feel safe. 2 of the guys will do flights that they don't need to stay current.

  • @someoneo-o3938
    @someoneo-o3938 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The flight time hit me hard. I'm out..

  • @Soupy59
    @Soupy59 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Why not go directly to train with Delta, Mesa, America West, and not even going military?

  • @davidpickens8800
    @davidpickens8800 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Ironic when get your eagle your wings are clipped

  • @PilotUnknownX
    @PilotUnknownX ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Im looking the drop a warrent packet, is the 10 year regardless of active or guard?

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This is correct, though I believe you can serve the 10 years across any component. I.e 6 years active followed by 4 reserves/guard

    • @PilotUnknownX
      @PilotUnknownX ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@damion_bailey great!! Guard might be the Move then. Hopefully its not a ten year addition to my active duty contract

  • @alinshaw1259
    @alinshaw1259 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Is the low flight time for commissioned specifically? Or is it the same rate for Warrant?

    • @strategygalactic
      @strategygalactic 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      In the military, when you reach a certain rank, Major, CW04, and SFC, you are considered staff grade, middle management.

  • @jacobfulton5106
    @jacobfulton5106 ปีที่แล้ว

    Does the 10 year commitment have to be active duty??

  • @LJSJIUJITSU
    @LJSJIUJITSU 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Man how do you stay current if get so little flight time?

  • @frankw8ite
    @frankw8ite ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So at the army office what do I ask for if I want to fly and then fly for ups ?

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Any airframe will work! 500 hours in a helicopter then do 250 on your own in an airplane and you’ve reached the 750 restricted ATP requirement for military pilots to fly for the airlines

    • @frankw8ite
      @frankw8ite ปีที่แล้ว

      @@damion_bailey thank you

  • @shujayethossain6554
    @shujayethossain6554 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi
    Can I become a pilot in the army?
    Not a helicopter pilot, fighter, or cargo plane.

  • @moistoyster5728
    @moistoyster5728 ปีที่แล้ว

    Is the 10 year commitment all on active duty or is some of that on IRR?

    • @strategygalactic
      @strategygalactic 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Active. IRR is automatic when you get out and have time left on the inactive part of your contract.

  • @jefeking2117
    @jefeking2117 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Let me get in i will sign for 10! Dont care bout the money the experience nd coolness is esp when you make it out

  • @ForYourConsideration
    @ForYourConsideration 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The pay may be less than civilian pilots but the level of respect from us civilians is huge.

  • @waxinggibbous718
    @waxinggibbous718 หลายเดือนก่อน

    It’s the same across western armies 👌🏼

  • @waterhead001
    @waterhead001 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Does the Army decide what type of Helicopter you are going to learn how to fly? Or does the pilot get to choose?

    • @Jake-he4rk
      @Jake-he4rk 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      all merit based on what I heard depending on how well you do within the program and the needs of the army say if there is 3 Blackhawks and 4 Apache's highest Preforming students from flight time and in the classroom get first pick then it goes down from the highest to lowest and I think some in the middle get next round pick however this is what I heard and I strongly recommend you look into more since there's a lot of videos on youtube with people who are in, that speak on a lot of subjects that you might have and there quite long and very informational

    • @Jake-he4rk
      @Jake-he4rk 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      they start you on trainer helicopters UH-72A Lakota then after you complete the program they will bring the class together and show what is available based on the army's needs and from there people pick however if it's just one helicopter platform like all Apache's open then congrats the class is now Apache pilots so do the best you can so there a chance you can get the platform you want. if you go that route and don't be lazy either because they can drop you if you don't meet standards it's rare but it can happen all the info I gave is from people who are in but yet I may be incorrect so the best thing is to do your own research and talk to recruiters/warrant aviators

  • @Odessaterp
    @Odessaterp ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Don’t understand how airlines, FedEx or UPS would be interested in Army rotary wing pilots.

  • @anthonyf.9170
    @anthonyf.9170 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The Army needs to re-think this. Even if they plan on going to full automation in the cockpit, you still need people.

  • @collinforbleach3780
    @collinforbleach3780 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    How should a CO/WO expect to be spending their time when not flying nearly as much? Is it just simulator flights or are there other things they have you do? These videos are super informative btw, really appreciate putting this information out

    • @hellatightdude
      @hellatightdude ปีที่แล้ว +2

      WO: Stocking the fridge

    • @DanielGonzalez-my2fd
      @DanielGonzalez-my2fd ปีที่แล้ว +15

      As a CO you'll spend time between staff and command, once you promote to MAJ, you'll bounce between XO/S3 and maybe a Medevac company command but I think those are restricted to 67J. These duties will take a lot of your time and you'll fly only to meet your minimums.
      As a WO you can stay at the company level flying much much much more, eventually you'll promote to a position that MAY take you away from the flight line for a bit but you'll always have the opportunity to get back to the flight line.

    • @DanielGonzalez-my2fd
      @DanielGonzalez-my2fd ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I should add this is from an Active Duty stand point.

  • @chrissixfix
    @chrissixfix ปีที่แล้ว +5

    10yr ADSO is insane!!!

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Tis!

    • @Pierre-qx7lo
      @Pierre-qx7lo ปีที่แล้ว

      Is that 10year a plus my 6years or is that concurrent?

    • @devildogentertainment4904
      @devildogentertainment4904 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Pierre-qx7lo ☠️ might as well do your 20

    • @nathanvandusen2166
      @nathanvandusen2166 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      10 years post flight training, basic training and WOCS

  • @onetruekeeper
    @onetruekeeper 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    UPS uses helicopters to deliver packages ?

  • @applachiancoconut5864
    @applachiancoconut5864 ปีที่แล้ว

    Down in D CO, 1st platoon now.

  • @10l94bucko
    @10l94bucko 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Non of these reason are not changing my mindset

  • @paulness8352
    @paulness8352 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It actually stands for Active Duty Service Obligation, and thats in regulation. And you forgot a "d".

  • @robertmalinak5684
    @robertmalinak5684 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Do you think the integration of the V280 will increase, decrease, or otherwise affect the flight hours of an ARMY pilot ?

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think it’ll remain the same, but now we can travel farther with the flight hours we have

  • @sweatmanjim
    @sweatmanjim 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Flight school starts every two weeks. W.O. Corps is a good route if you do not have a commission. First, Evaluate why you are there ... before you think it's a nine to five job. You don't pass unless you meet standards. They don't give out trophies to everyone and at times it is not fair... so suck it up butter cup and move on. If you like being a team member, you might do well. Don't give up.

  • @rykson161
    @rykson161 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What sunset and rainbows in a killing gang ??

  • @Resteasy8686
    @Resteasy8686 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The process is not well put together to join up. To many hurdles.

  • @piloto_loco
    @piloto_loco ปีที่แล้ว +6

    there is some error in your narrative. paying for an ATPL privately makes you lose your first 2 annual salaries once you get an airline hiring you. So, dedcut that.
    Second: The army sends you to college for free, So, deduct another potential 2 annual salaries to pay back your college loans. And they took you off the street, never forget that. An airlne wouldn't hire you off the road, don't trust that UPS ferytale. 4th: While doing the ATPL you still need to pursuit an income, and while you pay your cost for the flight training you would need to pay for your living as well. Seems you really havn't seen a lot of other pilots and what they went through till they got an airline contract. And most airline pilots are damn well educated even before they apply.
    5th: The Army gave you a warm place to sleep, and a warm meal 3 times a day. You don't think you get that with an airline do you.
    From my point of view the deal is clear and extremely fair upfront., being unappy after taking the upsides and then complaining when doing your part to complete the deal is not very loyal.
    you have a chance to serve your country, this is not just about getting you free education and wellness for no payback. Come on mate, you are sitting down these 6 years on one cheek without even trying, then you have all opportunities after that to get a highly paid commercial pilot. And that is the 6th feature, they made you market-ready. That makes 6 clearly identifyable and proof advantages you earned with this deal. Thanks to the Army. Trust me, i've seen hundreds and hundreds of pilots going the commercial way, and 95% suffer. maybe you should have a look at some videos explaining the downsides of being an airline pilot. Yes, There are 5% full striped captains with the 3 big airlines who seem to hit the jackpot. But as always, i recommend you to look closer. Enjoy what you have and give yourself the chance for a life after the army, you are so young still. Being unhappy will not end when you start your second career, you will keep complaining, it's your character. Think of you what you can do for others, not what others can do for you. The hiring process of an airline will surprise you. You will hate it. and they will put you into a regional prop first, for years and years, feeding you with peanuts and sugar water.

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sensational

    • @damion_bailey
      @damion_bailey  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Sensational

    • @celsopunzalan4929
      @celsopunzalan4929 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@damion_bailey Sir, despite the points that he made in his response to you, I am very much grateful for your publishing of the facts in your video. Honesty is what most of us aspiring pilots will be appreciative for and it will probably save some of us from our daydream of what we think army aviation is if we're not prepared to live up to the training required or pay received. Thank you for posting this video because now I have a much more down-to-earth view of what life in army aviation would be like rather than fluff of all the good things. I'm sure I can speak for many more aspiring aviators such as myself when I say we would undoubtedly appreciate it if you continued with videos like these, exposing the potential downsides of a path we may take.

    • @Discoveringme123
      @Discoveringme123 ปีที่แล้ว

      Piloto Loco, calm down man! Damion Bailey thanks for the heads up!

    • @mikedarren6658
      @mikedarren6658 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Perhaps it escaped you that the title of this video wasn't "Five reasons to NOT become a commercial pilot." He was pointing out the cons of being an Army pilot AND he said he would make the same decision again to do what he does. He was also too gracious to not point out this fact to you.

  • @Fyiaa95
    @Fyiaa95 ปีที่แล้ว

    Please specify 🚁Pilots!

  • @abrahamgarcia7955
    @abrahamgarcia7955 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Don’t get wrong guy
    Time in serves give you more money also bah and bas are not taxable this is why look like not enough money but you get more

  • @BlahBlah-em2ed
    @BlahBlah-em2ed 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Lt Col’s and Col’s in the Air Force rarely fly.

  • @philliphill4901
    @philliphill4901 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    If you have desire to learn to fly then the military is the best route to go. The one thing that this video does not bring out is the time and the cost the Army has invested into you becoming an aviator. The Army has invested a lot into you, and they want that return on their investment. Remember you will be in charge $30 Mill dollar plus acft, you will need to be on your game. These acft can't be replaced that easy.