AFRC IMA/Individual Reserve Orders - Self-funded Flight Training

[VincentDC]

This may sound a bit out of the box/left field. Hypothetically speaking, would it be conceivable, if I were an Individual Reservist/IMA in a given squadron, could I work out an arrangement to request active-duty orders to cover me while I pay for my own flight training in the hopes of completing all my ratings in order to streamline the process and make myself competitive for a board? The only cost would be salary and NOT flight training, which would be covered (in this case) by GI Bill funds. 

[SurelySerious]

For reference, it’s hard enough to get UTAPS to work (who the still uses IE11?!) to get paid for normal IDTs and get your orders cut by your Det and paid for AT…but if you figure this out, good on you.

[VincentDC]

Thank you 🙏 , good advice! 

[FlamingTornado]

Fascinating question!

This is straight from The Guide:

Quote

IRs can only earn Inactive Duty for Training (IDT) points for activities preparing them for full-time utilization or mobilization, which also includes performing your assigned duties (On the Job Training [OJT])

So technically you wouldn't be on active orders, but rather IDTs. And eventually, you'd be using points-only IDTs.

I've heard of IDTs being used for very creative things but the point is that if it prepares you for "full-time utilization or mobilization," it is kosher. There's obviously a lot of leeway in the language.

I will caveat this though, don't go abusing the system or being too "creative" with IDTs. Since you're not going to be a Navy SEAL, for example, training for an Iron Man or scuba diving is not a legitimate use of IDTs.

But specifically flying... that may just be permissible. 

I have to talk to my Det soon about a few things so I may just ask about that. Sounds like a really cool way to get some creditable retirement points and cash.