Expert: James Bell - 12/17/2008

Question
I am on the DEP, but I recently found out that my job will be loadmaster. I have read a bit about the job, but I have a few questions that I havent seen asked yet. Firstly, I leave March 30th and am only 18 credits shy of getting my BA in History and was wondering about the feasibility of finishing that up as a loadmaster (if so, how long)?  Secondly, I know there is a lot more to this job than just traveling, but I am curious as to how long the loadmaster has to see the city that he/she has landed in. I get the impression that the flights are all business and I wont be able to see anything off base..? Thanks, Kyle.

Answer
Kyle -

The Air Force has a very good education program.  The Base Education office will eagerly work with you to make sure you get the courses you need to finish your degree.  The G. I. Bill will also help defray the costs.  The time frame depends upon your workload and how you use your free time.  Realize that the military is your first priority, so school will need to fit in when you have spare time.

You "down-time" or stop-over time depends on how each mission is cut.  Many of my missions were termed "12-and-go", meaning we got the minimum 12 hours of crew rest and we were on to our next leg.  Some missions were cut to give us 24-48 hours off at a location.  It all depends on the particular mission and how it is planned and cut.

I hope this answers your questions.  If not, don't hesitate to write back.  I also have several responses posted in my previously asked section, so you will find many responses to loadmaster and aircrew questions there.

Sincerely,
James Bell