Aircrew is an outstanding way to experience the AF and the world - Aircraft Loadmaster US Air Force Employee Review

5.0
Jan 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Travel, additional pay, Per diem, tax free for transiting hostile areas, personal agency, authority based on expertise not rank, working with small and agile teams instead of large slow groups. PAY: Actual pay in the DOW also includes the BAH, BAS, COLA, Flight Pay for aircrew, any applicable specialty or duty pay, and a small annual clothing allowance for for enlisted. All these pays are easily researched by publicly accessible official DOW sites. Don't take anyones word for it, just research it. My actual total E-7 compensation is over 100k.

Cons

Major con is that the AF does not promote based on technical expertise, so as you become a more expert in your field you will also be promoting out of the technician role. Maybe this is great for you, but if you prefer technical roles you will have to posture yourself for additional duties or vectored roles which will keep you out of personnel management roles. E-8 and E-9 competition is based largely on personnel management and administration capabilities, however.

Explore other reviews about US Air Force

5.0
Jul 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Pay, benefits, mission, co workers, travel

Cons

Long work hours, away from family

4.0
Jul 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great first career after high school with excellent benefits, valuable training, steady pay, travel opportunities, and room for personal and professional growth.

Cons

Frequent moves, long hours, inconsistent leadership, and limited control over assignments or duty locations can make work-life balance difficult.

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