Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 5/3/2009

Question
Mark,

  I am 38, served in the Navy for 6 years 89-94. I have been flying GA (General Aviation) for about 4 years now and have about 1000 hrs. I am private airplane pilot with my instrument and commercial ratings, I am also private Helicopter pilot. I just graduated from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University with a BS in Professional Aeronautics with a minor in Aviation Crash and Safety Management. I plan to start my Masters soon also. In any case I was wondering about the USCG/OCS/Flight school. I am interested in flying Helicopters for the Coast Guard but am concerned about the Age requirement and was wondering how many years(age) if any do they normally waive. My goal currently is to fly for the Sheriffs Office because we are taking delivery of a 3rd Bell 407 in May 09 and we also have a Cessna 206. Our Aviation Unit has 9 pilots and 5 of them will be retiring within the next 3 years or less with 25-30 years of service so my chances should be pretty good to fly for my agency, however, I am exploring my options. Well I can talk forever. I thank you for your time and hope to hear from you soon with your advise and or recommendation(s).

Answer
Bobby,
That's a nice assortment of ratings you have there.  About all you're lacking is Multi-engine and Seaplane ratings, both of which will help you immensely (but are expensive).  Some flying schools will let you do both at once by taking your test in a multi-engine seaplane.  That's how I did mine.

Have you considered the Guard or Reserves?  At your age you can still enter the Naval Reserves and the Coast Guard Reserves until age 39.  Also you can join the Army Reserves and the Army National Guard until age 42.  Keeping you current flying job and flying in the USCG Reserves would be the best of both worlds.
Check it out at

http://www.gocoastguard.com/find-your-fit/reserve-opportunities/reserve-enlisted...

Do it NOW before you age out!

Good luck,
Colonel H