Yes, veterans can fly on military flights, but there are some constraints and conditions that they must adhere to. Military flights are usually reserved for those who are currently serving in the military, or who are a dependent of a military member.
However, veterans can sometimes receive a space-available pass to allow them to fly on military flights if space is available. These space-available seats are often filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is important for veterans to check with the Transportation Office at the local base to find out more information on the availability of flights and the wait time for confirmation.
The Department of Defense also has a Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) program for veterans that allows them to purchase a ticket for a flight available to military members. Veterans must have the program approved by a Transportation Office before they are allowed to purchase a ticket, and these tickets are often limited.
Additionally, some military towns and locations also have discounted flights available to veterans as part of their town’s local efforts to support veterans. It is important to research the local options available to veterans before attempting to fly on a military flight.
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Who qualifies for military flights?
Military Flights are typically reserved for members of the armed forces, both active duty and retired, as well as their families and pets. In addition, veterans of the US military and their families may also be eligible for reduced cost or free flights through certain programs offered by airlines.
To be eligible for a military flight, you must be able to prove your military association through your military ID as well as any other documentation that may be required. Depending on the airline, some may require a travel authorization letter from your base or installation detailing your travel plans, so it is important to contact the airline you are flying with to make sure you have everything you need.
Additionally, reservists and the spouses of active duty military members may also be eligible for flight discounts when traveling for military-related activity or for leisure, and may be required to have a dependent ID to receive the discount.
How do you get on a military flight?
Getting on a military flight depends on your relationship to the military and the availability of seats on the flight. If you are not a military service member or their dependent, the only way to get on a military flight is to be a DoD civilian employee or be affiliated with a DoD contractor and have a valid travel order.
In order to obtain a travel order, contact the Transportation Office or staff judge advocate nearest the location where the travel originates. You may even be required to obtain written approval from the local base commander.
For those who are military or their dependents, you can generally request a seat via the DOD Air Transportation Eligibility (DATE) system. DATE is an automated system that provides airlift services for members of the Armed Forces, civilian employees, and their eligible family members.
After you have been approved for a seat through the DATE system, contact the Passenger Terminal at the local Military Air Transport Service to make reservations on the military flight. You must present two forms of valid ID, such as your military ID card and a passport.
Once you’ve completed all of the necessary steps and you’re approved for a flight, you will arrive at the base passenger terminal in advance of the scheduled flight. We recommend that you arrive at least two hours prior to takeoff to ensure that you make it to the flight on time.
Lastly, be sure to review any safety instructions provided on check in and at the gate.
Do I get a military discount for flights?
Yes, many airlines offer discounts for active-duty and retired military personnel. This includes both domestic airlines and major international carriers. Depending on the airline, you might be able to get discounts of up to 10% for flights, and possibly higher discounts for baggage fees and other add-on charges.
To get the military discount, you will typically need to show valid military identification when you book the flight. Some airlines also require verification of military status. Some airlines provide special discount programs specifically designed for military personnel, so these programs should also be researched.
Keep in mind that policies can vary from airline to airline, so it’s important to check with your preferred airline directly to learn more about their individual military discount programs.
How much does it cost to fly a military plane?
The cost of flying a military plane varies widely depending on the type of aircraft and its mission. A basic C-130 military transport plane has an hourly rate of about $11,000, while a larger F-16 fighter jet may cost around $25,000 an hour.
Other aircraft such as helicopters, bombers, and attack planes tend to cost even more. In addition to the cost of the aircraft itself, there are a number of other factors that affect the cost of operating a military plane, such as fuel costs, maintenance, personnel, and support services.
In general, the cost of flying a military plane can range from tens of thousands of dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars per hour.
How much is military flight pay?
Military flight pay is based on the number of flying hours and the military rank of the service member. Flight pay is typically paid in an hourly or monthly rate.
Enlisted personnel with less than six years of service and no aviation badge earn a rate of $150 per month, plus $3. 00 for each hour of flight time. Enlisted personnel with more than six years of service or with aviation badges earn a rate of $300 per month, plus $9 for each hour of flight time.
Commissioned officers are paid a flat rate of $150 per month plus $150 for each hour of flight time. Officers who are qualified aerial observers receive a rate of $250 per month, plus $7. 50 for each hour of flight time.
Flight pay is subject to federal and state income taxation, and flight hours being credited toward retirement are subject to Internal Revenue Service regulations.
Can everyone in the Air Force fly a plane?
No, not everyone in the Air Force can fly a plane. The majority of the Air Force’s personnel are in support roles, such as maintainers, loaders, mechanics, and administrative duties. To become a military aviator requires rigorous training and there are many steps to becoming a rated Air Force pilot, beginning with the Pilot Candidate Selection Method (PCSM), testing, and other psychometric and physical programming.
Additionally, only a select few qualify to be an aircraft commander or flight instructor. Consequently, the number of pilots in the Air Force is a fraction of the service’s total personnel.
Do you fly for free in the Air Force?
No, you do not fly for free in the Air Force. All members of the U. S. Armed Forces must pay for their own air travel, unless it is directly related to their military duties. Active duty military members are sometimes able to qualify for a space available (Space-A) seat on military flights within the continental United States, but there is no guarantee that space will always be available.
When traveling overseas, the member may be able to receive discounted flights through the U. S. Military’s central travel office, but they will still be required to pay for any accompanying family members.
Are civilians allowed to fly military aircraft?
No, civilians are not typically allowed to fly military aircraft. All pilots who operate military aircraft are required to be in the military or part of a military contractor program. As such, in most cases, civilians are not permitted to fly military aircraft.
Depending on the location, there may be some programs that allow civilians to fly military aircraft with special permission, but these are extremely rare. Additionally, it is important to note that even when civilians do gain permission to fly military aircraft, they must have a very high level of experience and training in order to do so.
Do military family members get flight discounts?
Yes, military family members do get flight discounts. Most airlines offer discounts to active military personnel, veterans, retirees, and their families. Airlines may provide discounts for airfare for active duty members, retired servicemen and women, and their families.
Usually a valid military ID or proof of service is required. Discounts are also sometimes offered to the families of deployed servicemembers. Additionally, in some cases, one-way tickets home for military families may be eligible for discounted pricing.
Families of servicemembers may also be eligible for discounts when booking a destination vacation. Be sure to check with individual airlines for availability of discounts and for specific criteria for eligibility.
Does military discount extend to family?
In many cases, yes, military discounts do extend to family members. However, eligibility requirements vary, depending on the retailer offering the discount. While some retailers require family members to show a valid military or veteran ID to qualify for the discount, others may also extend the discount to immediate family members associated with an active duty, veteran, reservist, or retired service member.
Usually, retailers that offer this type of discount are happy to provide further information about eligibility requirements, so it’s best to contact the retailer ahead of time to ensure the discount applies to your family.
It is also important to note that policies may vary if you are shopping online, as opposed to in-store.
Can I use my military dependent ID at the airport?
Yes, you can use your military dependent ID at the airport. Just make sure you have your valid government-issued photo identification and military dependent ID when you arrive at the airport. Depending on your airport, you may need to flash both pieces of identification to pass through security.
Additionally, many airlines provide discounts to both active military and dependents, so if you’re buying a ticket make sure to inquire about a military discount.
Do military dependents get free bags on flights?
Yes, most airlines provide free checked bags for military dependents. Depending on the airline, military dependents may be able to receive up to five free checked bags when traveling in the US, and up to four free checked bags when traveling internationally.
The exact number of free checked bags allowed varies based on the airline and the specific fare. Most airlines also offer discounts on additional bags. To receive free checked bags and any discounts, military dependents should provide the airline with the appropriate military identification.
Additionally, many airlines offer priority boarding, additional legroom, waived fees, and other special benefits and discounts to military dependents.
What benefits do military kids get?
Military kids benefit in a variety of ways from their parents’ service. They often receive discounts on tutoring, uniforms, and school supplies through their base commissary. They may also receive student support services like counseling, tutoring and mentoring, as well as scholarships and grants.
Through the Department of Defense’s Military Child Education Coalition, military kids can receive college and career planning assistance, guidance on college admissions and financial aid, and even career coaching.
Military kids have also been shown to develop a strong sense of resilience, as well as a sense of purpose and citizenship as they learn to adjust to the constant changes in their home life. Additionally, many military kids develop strong social networks and have access to opportunties to build leadership and team building skills through youth programs on base.
Can the spouse of a 100 disabled veterans fly Space available?
Yes, the spouse of a 100 disabled veteran can fly Space Available. The Space Available (or Space-A) travel program is one of the ways in which members of the military, their families, and military retirees can fly for free.
Military personnel, their families, including the dependents of 100% disabled veterans, are all eligible to use the Space Available travel program. In order to fly Space Available, the service member or their family must present a valid military ID, a power of attorney (if applicable), a Leave and Earning Statement, and documentation of the service member’s disability rating (if a dependent of a 100% disabled veteran).
Once all of the documentation is verified and the appropriate forms are completed, the dependent of a 100% disabled veteran can typically fly Space Available. The Space Available travel program is subject to availability and requires patience, as often the transportation cannot be guaranteed.
However, when the flight is available, the dependent of the 100% disabled veteran should have the ability to board the aircraft.
