Air Force
Air Force unveils bonuses of up to $50,000 annually
Stars and Stripes
April 8, 2026
U.S. Air Force Capt. Nicholas “Laz” Le Tourneau, F-22 Demonstration Team commander and pilot, gives a hand sign before taking off during at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 26, 2026. Eligible active-duty airmen can apply for the service’s aviation bonus through May 31, 2026, the service said in a news release. (Samantha Melecio/U.S. Air Force)
Eligible and active-duty airmen can apply for the Air Force’s fiscal year 2026 aviation bonus starting on April 1, the service said in a news release.
The updated bonus program helps the Air Force retain experienced aviators, and now offers higher compensation for shorter contract lengths, particularly in the fighter, bomber and U-2 communities, the release said.
“Our airmen are extremely talented, with critical skills that are highly sought after,” said the service’s chief of staff, Gen. Ken Wilsbach, in the release.
The shortest contracts go for three years while the longest are 12 years. The rates go up to $50,000 per year, depending on the applicant’s field and experience.
The application window closes on May 31. The program is for active-duty aviators at the rank of lieutenant colonel and below. Airmen in the reserve component can also apply if they serve in the Voluntary Limited Period of Active Duty Program.
More detailed instructions are available on the MyFSS website.