Soldiers could see their promotion prospects take off with a new career path that offers them a rapid climb through the ranks of the Army Air Corps.
Under a system being introduced this month, troops who qualify can bag themselves a WO2 equivalent grade (aviation warrant officer) when they finish training.
Previously, they would have been a sergeant.
Those in the cockpit of hi-tech platforms such as Apache and Wildcat can also rise further in the role as they accrue experience and pile up flying hours.
In addition, private soldiers from any Service branch can throw their beret into the ring, providing they have been recommended for lance corporal. The Army remains the only Armed Forces branch offering pilot roles to those from the ranks.
Aviation bosses hope the change will attract the best talent as air assets become increasingly important in the modern battlespace.
Candidates begin flying training at Shawbury, after which the majority typically specialise on either Wildcat at RNAS Yeovilton or Apache at Middle Wallop. A conversion-to-role course concludes the initial training.
Maj Jake Jewson on the Army Air Corps personnel team predicted that the changes – which follow an MoD aviation review – would open doors for newcomers.
The experienced pilot, with 1,000 hours on Apache, Gazelle and Bell 212 aircraft, said promotion prospects for aviators were strong.
They would continue to climb in seniority after achieving the first aviation warrant officer grade – known as AW1 – with an increase in pay as they progress to AW4.
He added: “The doors are well and truly open for soldiers to pursue a flying career.
“Make no mistake, those applying face hard courses, but success is achievable and there are rewards for personnel who complete them – notably a great career.”
Troops from many cap badges had trained as pilots, with Maj Jewson stating experience from other roles could be an advantage.
He said: “If, for example, you have served in the Infantry then you already have a skill set that could be useful. We have individuals who have been on the ground on operational tours – they understand how soldiers are working.”
WO2 Mark Bowker – who is currently flying the new-generation Apache AH-64E – decided to try for aircrew selection as a lance corporal in the Intelligence Corps.
WO2 Mark Bowker
He said: “I always had an interest in aviation but didn’t believe I had the right background. I qualified on the Apache in 2014 and flew in the Middle East, America and Europe as well as operating from Navy ships in the Baltic Sea.”
The initiative includes a new path for AAC troops aspiring to be rear crew. Ground crews are also being looked at.
