Air Force pilot pay and retention bonuses raised
In committeeS. 4375Latest action
Sponsor: Ted Budd · Senator · NC
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Official title: RETAIN Act of 2026
119th Congress
Topics: Security & foreign affairs
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Air Force pilots with 8+ years of flight service would get top incentive pay, and retention bonuses could reach $100,000 a year.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill changes how the Air Force pays and keeps its pilots. Pilots with more than 8 years of flying service would automatically receive the highest monthly aviation incentive pay. A current retention program would be expanded, with shorter commitment periods, higher bonuses up to $100,000 a year, and a requirement that the Air Force match or beat bonus offers from the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve.
Who does it affect?
This bill affects Air Force aviation officers, especially active-duty pilots. The Air Force would be required to follow the new pay and assignment rules.
Why does it matter?
Active-duty pilots currently may receive lower incentive pay or face longer commitment requirements than pilots in reserve components. Without these changes, some pilots may choose to leave active duty for the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve, where terms may be more favorable.
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 22, 2026
- Senate committeeYou are here · Apr 22, 2026
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.