myNavyRates.rg
Home/Compare All Rates/AWF
Donate
Compare All RatesBest ListsQuizPayBonusesASVAB CalculatorAdvancement Name SearchDuty StationsFamily ImpactFree DegreeRecruitersBe an OfficerArticlesFAQs
myNavyRates.rg
Donate

Explore

  • All Rates
  • Side-by-Side
  • Best Lists
  • Articles
  • FAQs

Tools

  • Take the Quiz
  • Anti-Match Quiz
  • ASVAB Calculator
  • Pay
  • Pay Value
  • Bonuses
  • Advancement

Life in the Navy

  • Duty Stations
  • Family Impact
  • Free Degree
  • Be an Officer
  • Recruiters

About

  • About
  • Contact
  • Changelog
  • Donate
  • Privacy
  • Disclaimer
  • Sitemap

Not affiliated with the U.S. Navy or Department of Defense.·© 2026 myNavyRates.org. All rights reserved.

HomeCompare RatesQuizBonusesASVAB CalculatorMore
Home/Rates/AWF
Aircrewman Helicopter sailor
Aircrewman Helicopter rating badgeAWF

Aircrewman Helicopter(AWF Navy Rating)

Serves as helicopter aircrewman specializing in fleet logistics support.

ATFAdvanced Technical Field

Overall

5.2/10
Burnout4.4
Lifestyle5.0
Civilian ROI3.6
Happiness7.0
Manning %3.2
$$$ Pay5.6

Quick Stats

Enlistment Bonus$10,000
Civilian Sector Transferability$45k–$70k
Advancement OutlookStrong opportunity
Manning %99%
Initial Contract5 yr active /
Medical Requirements
  • ✓Vision: Corrects to 20/20
  • ✓Normal color perception
  • ✓Normal hearing
  • ✓No speech impediment

Security Clearance

Secret~$3K–$15K civilian sector value

Requires a National Agency Check with Local Agency Check and Credit Check (NACLC). Processing typically takes 1–3 months and is initiated early in your training pipeline.

ASVAB Requirements

AFQT Minimum

50

Who This Is Best For

Best for individuals who want flight experience with a logistics focus and a more predictable deployment cycle than tactical aircrews. If you prefer steady flight hours and strong teamwork in a smaller aviation community over high-intensity tactical missions, this specialty offers balance.

+Pros

  • ✓Active enlistment bonus available
  • ✓Strong opportunity advancement outlook
  • ✓Strong civilian career transition

–Cons

  • ✗Significant sea duty

Real Opinions

+Positive

✓

“Flying is amazing. Aircrew life has its downsides but nothing beats looking out the window on a mission.”

r/navy|
✓

“Flying in Navy helicopters as aircrew is unlike anything else in the military. AWF gets to operate sensor systems, rescue hoists, and weapons during real-world missions. The adrenaline of SAR (Search and Rescue) operations and the camaraderie among aircrews is second to none.”

Indeed|

–Negative & Mixed

✗

“The schedule is unpredictable. You could be gone for weeks with little notice. Hard on relationships.”

r/newtothenavy|
✗

“The aircrew pipeline has a significant attrition rate and the physical demands are real — you need to be a strong swimmer and comfortable in water survival scenarios. Once in the fleet, deployment tempo for helicopter squadrons can be high with frequent detachments away from home base.”

Reddit r/navy|

Page 1 of 3

Share your opinion about AWF

0 chars
Select one:

Recruiter vs Reality

What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.

🫡 Recruiter says

“You will fly in Navy aircraft and see the world from above!”

💀 Reality

Source: MyNavyRates research

You do fly, but much of your time is spent on ground maintenance, pre-flight checks, and qualifications. Flight schedules can be unpredictable and hard on family life.

🫡 Recruiter says

“AWF has one of the most exciting jobs in the Navy.”

💀 Reality

Source: sailor forums

Flying is exciting but the training pipeline is demanding. Failing any phase means reclassification. Between flights, you maintain equipment and study publications.

Page 1 of 7

😱

Horror Stories

Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.

💀

“An MH-53E Sea Dragon caught fire and exploded towing a mine sled off San Francisco, killing all eight crew aboard. The MH-53E has caused 132 deaths in 58 Class A mishaps since 1974 — the worst safety record in the Navy fleet.”

Source: nationalinterest.org|

Story 1 of 4

Share a horror story about AWF

0 chars

Related Reading

Guides on picking a rate, ASVAB, bonuses, promotion, and life after the Navy.

Getting Started

How do you choose the right Navy rate for you?

Choosing a Navy rate means weighing your ASVAB scores, lifestyle preferences, civilian career goals, and willingness to deploy or go to sea. Start by identifying which ratings you qualify for, then narrow the list by what matters most to you.

Getting Started

What is the ASVAB and what scores do you need?

The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test that determines which Navy ratings you qualify for. Your sub-test scores combine into line scores, and each rating has minimum line-score requirements. Higher scores open more options.

Career & Pay

Which Navy rates have the biggest enlistment bonuses in 2026?

Active Component (Active Duty) only. Per the CNRC GENADMIN dated 24 July 2026, the biggest source-rate bonus is $40,000 — Nuclear Field on FY26 ship dates ($75,000 EB cap). Special Warfare Boat Operator (SB) follows at $35,000, then EOD and SEAL (SO) at $30,000, and Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR) and Cryptologic Technician Maintenance (CTM) at $25,000. Special Operations Future Sailors who clear the elevated PST standards add a flat $20,000 EBPST. Most rates cap at $50,000 total EB. The Loan Repayment Program adds up to $65,000 on top, separately. Reserve component (SELRES) bonuses are governed by a different message and are not covered here.

Real Opinions

+Positive

✓

“Flying is amazing. Aircrew life has its downsides but nothing beats looking out the window on a mission.”

r/navy|
✓

“Flying in Navy helicopters as aircrew is unlike anything else in the military. AWF gets to operate sensor systems, rescue hoists, and weapons during real-world missions. The adrenaline of SAR (Search and Rescue) operations and the camaraderie among aircrews is second to none.”

Indeed|

–Negative & Mixed

✗

“The schedule is unpredictable. You could be gone for weeks with little notice. Hard on relationships.”

r/newtothenavy|
✗

“The aircrew pipeline has a significant attrition rate and the physical demands are real — you need to be a strong swimmer and comfortable in water survival scenarios. Once in the fleet, deployment tempo for helicopter squadrons can be high with frequent detachments away from home base.”

Reddit r/navy|

Page 1 of 3

Share your opinion about AWF

0 chars
Select one:

Recruiter vs Reality

What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.

🫡 Recruiter says

“You will fly in Navy aircraft and see the world from above!”

💀 Reality

Source: MyNavyRates research

You do fly, but much of your time is spent on ground maintenance, pre-flight checks, and qualifications. Flight schedules can be unpredictable and hard on family life.

🫡 Recruiter says

“AWF has one of the most exciting jobs in the Navy.”

💀 Reality

Source: sailor forums

Flying is exciting but the training pipeline is demanding. Failing any phase means reclassification. Between flights, you maintain equipment and study publications.

Page 1 of 7

😱

Horror Stories

Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.

💀

“An MH-53E Sea Dragon caught fire and exploded towing a mine sled off San Francisco, killing all eight crew aboard. The MH-53E has caused 132 deaths in 58 Class A mishaps since 1974 — the worst safety record in the Navy fleet.”

Source: nationalinterest.org|

Story 1 of 4

Share a horror story about AWF

0 chars

Line-score options — meet any one

  • VE+AR+MK+MC≥210
  • VE+AR+MK+AS≥210
Calculate your score →

Medical Requirements — detail

Normal depth perception. In accordance with reference (e), Article 15-92, applicants must meet the hearing standards for Student Naval Aviator (SNA) (see Aircrew Hearing Standards chart: 500Hz=25dB, 1000Hz=25dB, 2000Hz=25dB, 3000Hz=45dB, 4000Hz=55dB). All applicants will test for "reading aloud" in accordance with reference (e) Article 15-95. Hay fever, asthma, bee sting/food allergy reaction and chronic motion sickness are disqualifying. Normal depth perception required for rescue swimmer.

Remarks

Must volunteer for duty involving aerial flight and be physically qualified and psychologically adapted for flight per reference (e) Article 15-92.

Must be certified as Class II swimmer prior to completion of Recruit Training, with the potential of qualifying as Class I swimmer during AW training. Rescue swimmer and sea-air rescue training included in AW guarantee, therefore, strong swimmers are desired.

In accordance with reference (f), aviation duty minimum and maximum nude body weights are 103 pounds and 245 pounds respectively.

Applicants for aviation programs are held to strict physical standards and therefore are less likely to be recommended for waivers. All waivers to the physical standards for AIRC applicants shall be submitted in accordance with reference (e), Article 15-83.

All AWs will be accessed either as AIRR ATF or AIRC ATF. No drug convictions or drug history other than marijuana or alcohol. For AIRR, the Warrior Challenge Program Manager at Commander, Navy Recruiting Command (NRC N32) may conduct a program eligibility determination for ONE misdemeanor drug abuse conviction (marijuana only) OR a possession of drug paraphernalia (marijuana only). Determinations will be made strictly on a case-by-case basis. Must be 30 years of age or less at time of accession.

Special Lateral Conversion Requirements: Fleet Candidates must be certified as class II swimmer before package submission. Rescue swimmer requirements are physically demanding; therefore, strong swimmers only. No pre-service drug convictions or drug history other than marijuana or alcohol. Must meet all requirements in accordance with MILPERSMAN 1220-010.

Source: CNRC / ECM Rating List, 19 Jan 2026. Verify current guidance with your recruiter before signing.

Training Pipeline — Total ~17 weeks (4 months)

8w
6w
3w
Boot Camp— 8 weeks
RTC Great Lakes, IL
Basic military training for all recruits
A-School— 6 weeks
NATTC Pensacola, FL
14.1% washoutDifficulty: 3.2/10
Technical training for rating qualification
SERE School— 3 weeks
NAS North Island, CA
Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape training
Fleet Assignment— 0 weeks
First duty station
Report to operational command

Calculate Your End Training Date and Holidays and Events You Will Miss During Training

Ship dates are approximate and based on the weekly RTC Great Lakes schedule. Confirm your exact date with your recruiter. Source: bootcamp.navy.mil

Career Progression Milestones

Estimated timeline based on current advancement rates. Actual timing varies by individual performance and Navy needs.

4 mo
1 mo
1yr 5mo
6 mo
1yr 6mo
Training Complete— 4 mo
Pipeline finished (~4 mo) — NATTC Pensacola, FL
First Duty Station— 5 mo
Likely sea duty assignment
NEC Specialization Options— 1yr 10mo
24 specializations available
G16AG20AG22A

Advancement Outlook

E-2 to E-4 Advancement Outlook

Time to E-4: 30 months total

  • E-1 → E-2: 9 months at E-1. Automatic
  • E-2 → E-3: 9 months at E-2. Automatic
  • E-3 → E-4: 12 months at E-3. Automatic

E-4 is automatic — competitive advancement starts at E-5

How to advance faster to E-4

Your recruiter can process you in at E-2 or E-3 on day one if you qualify. Every rung skipped shortens the path to E-4 by months. Official transcripts / certificates required at enlistment.

  • E-2 →Easy
    2 years of JROTC completed. Easiest common path if your high school offers JROTC.
  • E-2 →Moderate
    24+ semester hours/ 36+ quarter hours of college credit (below the associate's threshold). Roughly one full year of college.
  • E-2 →Moderate
    Civil Air Patrol Billy Mitchell Award. Achievable with consistent cadet participation, but requires testing and leadership time.
  • E-2 →Moderate
    Sea Cadet Corps — reaching the Sea Cadet E-2 rate (join by age 17).
  • E-2 to E-3 →Moderate
    Boot camp leadership roles — roles don't auto-pin rank. Advancement comes from earning Honor Recruit or Hall of Fame at graduation (one award only, not stacked).
    • Honor Recruit up to E-2 — effectively the #1 ranked recruit in your division (~60-80 recruits), one Sailor per division per cycle. Selection is based on cumulative performance across all three academic exams, Physical Readiness Test (PRT) scores, uniform and personnel inspections, military bearing, and peer/Recruit Division Commander (RDC) evaluations. Roles that typically compete at this level:
      • Assistant LPO (ALPO) — deputy to the LPO.
      • Master-at-Arms (MAA) — barracks cleanliness, standards, and discipline.
      • Yeoman (YN) — division admin, paperwork, and tracking.
      • Educational Petty Officer (EPO) — study groups, test prep, and academic remediation.
      • Religious Petty Officer (RPO) — coordinates chapel and religious services.
      • Athletic Petty Officer (APO) — leads PT and fitness assessments.
      • Mail Petty Officer — handles mail distribution and tracking.
      • Section Leaders — squad-level leaders below the division-wide roles.
    • Hall of Fame up to E-3 — the most elite recognition at Recruit Training Command (RTC), awarded Navy-wide rather than per division. Requires exceptional performance in every training metric: top-tier scores on all three academic exams (typically 90%+), "Outstanding" on the final Physical Readiness Test (PRT), near-perfect uniform and personnel inspections, held a division leadership role with strong performance, and zero remediation, infractions, or negative marks across the full training cycle. Senior leadership roles positioned to compete:
  • E-3 →Moderate
    3 years of JROTC completed (any service branch). Straightforward if your high school has the program — three school years of enrollment.
  • E-3 →Hard
    Eagle Scout (BSA) or Gold Award (GSUSA) — the highest youth scouting awards. Typically takes years of participation and a capstone service project.
  • E-3 →Hard
    Associate's degree (or 48+ semester hours / 72+ quarter hours of college credit, 100-level or higher from an accredited institution). Two years of full-time college.
  • E-3 →Hard
    Civil Air Patrol Earhart Award. Uncommon — only a small fraction of CAP cadets reach this level.
  • E-3 →Hard
    Sea Cadet Corps — reaching the Sea Cadet E-3 rate (join by age 16).

Ceiling is E-3 at accession — stacking qualifications doesn't push you to E-4 out of the gate.

Ways to accelerate E-4 after you're in

  • HardAdvanced Technical Field (ATF) ProgramAuto E-4 — AWF is on the ATF roster. Per MILPERSMAN 1510-030 §3a the full ATF list is the Naval Aircrewman service ratings (AWF / AWR / AWS / AWO / AWV), the cryptologic / cyber ratings CTI, CWT, the special-operations ratings EOD, ND, SB, SO, plus IC, IS, IT, the submarine-IT ratings ITE / ITN / ITR, and specific HM advanced NECs (L00A, L02A, L08A, L17A, L24A, L27A, L31A). ATF Sailors advance to E-2 on RTC graduation (§2b), E-3 after 9 months TIG (§9c), and E-4 after A-school + required advanced training + 6 months TIG at E-3 (§9d). Governed by MILPERSMAN 1510-030 (CH-94, 16 Mar 2026) and MILPERSMAN 1430-010. Requirements (§9d):
    • All requirements for advancement in rate completed
    • CO recommendation via NAVPERS 1336/3
    • PFA / body-composition standards (OPNAVINST 6110.1K)
    • Required advanced training complete
    • Sufficient obligated service — ATF carries a 6-year OBLISERV (§7)
    ATF is an enlistment-level election at MEPS / RTC (§2a). Fleet Sailors may request enrollment while at a training activity; conversion into an ATF-only rating auto-enrolls.
  • Very HardMeritorious Advancement Program (MAP) — Command-nominated promotion that skips the exam entirely. Each command gets a small seasonal quota of MAP slots and hands them to the top performers based on evaluation ranking. Fastest path on paper, but you're competing directly with every other sailor at your command.

Rules can change — verify current criteria with your recruiter and in the latest Navy Recruiting Manual (COMNAVCRUITCOM) before signing any paperwork that assumes a specific entry paygrade.

E-5 and E-6 Advancement Outlook

Strong opportunity★★★☆

2 of 4 factors working in your favor · 1 working against you

  • ▼

    Manning

    E5 97%E6 101%(E-4/E-5)
    Community is at or above authorized strength. Limited BBA billet gaps — expect more competition and slower promotion.

    Source: N12 Community Health Indicator brief (FY26)

  • ▲

    Initial Enlistment Bonus

    Yes — active bonus

    The Navy currently pays an enlistment bonus to new recruits who select this rate. An active bonus usually signals the community is short on accessions, which is the same pressure that keeps senior billets open.
  • ▲

    Overall Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) Outlook

Bonuses — Click here to see your military pay

All Active CNRC Enlistment Incentives

Active Duty

Source: CNRC GENADMIN 24 JUL 26 — effective Jul 27, 2026, contracts authorized through Dec 31, 2026 (NDAA 2026)

Active Component only. Reservist (SELRES) shipping bonuses are set by a separate CNRF incentive message — ask your recruiter.

Bonuses can stack up to the rating's EB cap; LRP is independent. Footnote numbers match the source GENADMIN.

Source-Rate Bonus (EBSR)

Earned at school graduation; only EB type that can be partially recouped.

AIRC-ATF

Any

$10,000[2]

EBSR Notes

  • 2EBSR is earned and payable upon graduation from "A" or "C" school.

Cross-cutting Policy Notes

  • 1Future Sailors with Tier 3 education credentials (e.g., HiSET / GED / alternative credential) are NOT authorized any EB.
  • 2Prior-service members re-enlisting onto Active Duty must enter at pay grade E-4 or below, must not have received a bonus on their first enlistment, and (Navy prior-service) must have been separated from active duty for at least 12 months before shipping.
  • 3EBHS (EB for High School) is currently NOT AUTHORIZED in this message — distinct from prior cycles when EBHS was offered.
  • 4During lapsed appropriations, classifiers may still include EB on a contract if the DD 1966 carries the funding-availability disclaimer; payment is then subject to a future appropriation.
  • 5Bonuses are paid in installments. Only the unearned portion of EBSR is eligible for recoupment; EBSHP/EBPST cannot be recouped due to post-RTC reclassification or separation.

Always verify with a recruiter before signing — eligibility depends on AFQT, education tier, security-clearance adjudication, ship date, and program availability. Funding subject to congressional reauthorization of 37 USC § 331.

How to qualify & get paid

  1. Sign a contract for this rate at MEPS with the bonus(es) listed on your NAVCRUIT 1133/52 Enlistment Guarantee — eligibility is locked at signing.
  2. Ship to Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes inside the authorized window — EBSHP and EBPST are earned and paid at RTC graduation and cannot be recouped after.
  3. Complete A-school (and any required follow-on C-school or qualifying course) for your rating — EBSR is earned and paid at school graduation, except for the Special-Operations pipelines, which pay later (AIRR after FRS + first duty station; SO after SQT; SB after SWCC Charlie phase; EOD/ND after their respective A-schools).
  4. LRP is paid annually upon submission of a DD 2475; ~25% is withheld for federal taxes, and a W-2 is issued. LRP must be on your contract at accession — it cannot be added later via reclassification.

Important details & disqualifiers

  • •All bonuses on this page are Active Component (Active Duty) only. Reservists (SELRES) follow a separate CNRF incentive message — ask your recruiter.
  • •Future Sailors with Tier 3 education credentials (HiSET / GED / alternative) are NOT authorized any EB.
  • •AFQT score must be ≥ 31 for EBSHP and ≥ 50 for LRP.
  • •EBSR is the only EB type that can be partially recouped if you separate before completing the obligated service. EBSHP / EBPST cannot be recouped after RTC.
  • •Bonus payments are subject to federal income tax withholding.
  • •EB-for-High-School (EBHS) is currently NOT authorized in the July 2026 GENADMIN — distinct from earlier cycles when it was offered.
  • •Funding: NDAA 2026 authorizes contracts through 31 December 2026; appropriations cover obligations through 30 September 2026; max-EB authority extends through 10 January 2027 — all subject to congressional reauthorization of 37 USC § 331.
  • •This rate requires a security clearance — failure to obtain clearance may affect bonus eligibility (and several special-operations footnotes explicitly require an earned NEC + clearance before payment).

You May Qualify for a Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC)

Specialties within this rate you can select, some with additional compensation. Each NEC has its own training, bonus potential, and career path.

G20AE-6B Flight Engineer

Performs in-flight duties as an E-6B Flight Engineer. Knowledge of aircraft systems, equipment, normal, special and emergency procedures. Operates and manages aircraft systems in-flight. Maintains the E-6B aircraft while independently deployed.

Requirements

  • Must have a Top Secret/SCI security clearance and be PRP eligible.
  • Candidates in paygrade E4 will be screened by the STAR program (MILPERSMAN1160-100) prior to being detailed to the G20A course.

Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB)

🟢

First Reenlistment (17 mo to 6 yrs Active Duty)

$45,000

Max

Increased

🟡

Second Reenlistment (6 to 10 yrs Active Duty)

$45,000

Max

Reduced · effective 2025-12-18

Potential Civilian Post-Navy Outcomes

Flight Paramedic

Transferability: 6/10

$45k–$70k

Post-Navy Salary Trajectory

Estimated civilian salary growth after separating from the Navy, based on industry data for this rating's skill set.

Year 1

$45K

Year 5

$58K

Year 10

$70K

10-year growth: +56%

Retention & Burnout

First-Term Retention

60%

choose to reenlist

Burnout Index

4.4/10

Moderate

Watch Intensity

5

Hours/Day

9

Deploy Tempo

7

Manning Strain

0

Low Morale Risk

3

Attrition Signal

4

What this means: The Burnout Index combines watch intensity (25%), daily hours (20%), deployment tempo (15%), manning strain (15%), morale (15%), and attrition (10%) into a single risk score.

Lifestyle5/10

Ship vs. Shore Split

60% / 40%

Sea Duty Tempo

High — 7/10

Physical Demand

high — mixed

Sea Duty Tempo measures how much of a career is spent in deployable billets — ships, submarines, deploying squadrons, and expeditionary units — and how often those units leave homeport. It is separate from physical demand: an administrative job aboard a deployed unit still deploys, and a hands-on maintenance job at a shore command does not.

Watch Standing

Flight schedule dependent, rotating duty days

Watch standing is a 24-hour duty rotation where sailors take turns manning critical positions aboard the ship or at their command. The rotation determines how frequently you stand watch and how much rest time you get between shifts.

Watch qualifications vary by command and platform. Expect to qualify within 90 days of reporting.

OPNAVINST 3120.32DUSNI ProceedingsNavy Watch Standing Manual

Life on Watch — Sea Stories

“I was operating the FLIR camera during a nighttime drug interdiction mission when I spotted a go-fast boat running without lights. We tracked it for 45 minutes while the Coast Guard cutter moved to intercept. The boat crew started dumping bales overboard when they realized they were being tracked. I kept the camera locked on and called out GPS coordinates for every bale they dropped. The Coast Guard recovered over 2,000 pounds of contraband and apprehended the crew. My camera work was the prosecution's primary evidence. That whole mission happened because I was paying attention to a dark ocean at 0300.”

Veteran account (composite)

Story 1 of 4

Common Duty Stations

Naval Station NorfolkSea
Family Friendly

6.9/10

Schools + spouse jobs

Base Housing Wait

10 months

Avg waitlist for on-base

Cost of Living

95

100 = national avg

Naval Base San DiegoSea
Family Friendly

7.9/10

Schools + spouse jobs

Base Housing Wait

14 months

Avg waitlist for on-base

Cost of Living

135

100 = national avg

Naval Station JacksonvilleShore
🎓

Step-by-Step Strategy Guide to Getting an Associate's Degree After Boot Camp — For Free

Most sailors don't know they already have 9 or more general education college credits just from graduating boot camp.

Based on your rate, you may have more.

You can earn an associate's degree for free in 12-30 months without spending a dime.

Strategy Guide & Boot Camp College Credit Calculator →
Not the rate for you? See other ratings side by side →

Talk to a Sailor

Community Poll

If you could go back, would you pick AWF again?

Career & Pay

How does promotion work in the Navy?

Navy advancement depends on exam scores, evaluations, time in rate, and available quotas. Some ratings promote over 50% of eligible sailors while others promote less than 5%. Your rate choice directly affects how fast you can advance.

Career & Pay

Which Navy jobs set you up best for a civilian career?

Information warfare ratings (IT, CTN, IS) and medical ratings (HM) offer the strongest civilian career pipelines. Security clearances, technical certifications, and hands-on experience make these sailors highly competitive in the private sector.

Browse all articles →

Life on Watch — Sea Stories

“I was operating the FLIR camera during a nighttime drug interdiction mission when I spotted a go-fast boat running without lights. We tracked it for 45 minutes while the Coast Guard cutter moved to intercept. The boat crew started dumping bales overboard when they realized they were being tracked. I kept the camera locked on and called out GPS coordinates for every bale they dropped. The Coast Guard recovered over 2,000 pounds of contraband and apprehended the crew. My camera work was the prosecution's primary evidence. That whole mission happened because I was paying attention to a dark ocean at 0300.”

Veteran account (composite)

Story 1 of 4

G25A
+ more
C-School / Advanced Training— 2yr 4mo
2 follow-on schools available
Shore Duty Rotation— 3yr 10mo
First shore rotation opportunity
  • Leading Petty Officer (LPO) — runs day-to-day ops inside the division.
  • Assistant RCPO (ARCPO) — backs up the RCPO and steps in when needed.
  • Recruit Chief Petty Officer (RCPO) — senior recruit in the division, overall accountability to the RDCs. Highest visibility for meritorious advancement.
Average+2 SRB added/increased · −2 SRB reduced/eliminated
$45,000 max
Navy is paying a substantial bonus to retain sailors. Strong signal that billets are staying empty at senior paygrades.
  • ●

    Billet-Based Advancement eligibility

    Legacy exam cycles

    This rating has not been integrated into Billet-Based Advancement yet. Advancement still runs through the traditional exam and Final Multiple Score (FMS) system — your exam score is one of the main factors in how you promote.

    • Sources: Manning NAVADMIN · SRB NAVADMIN · Billet-Based Advancement Handbook (NAVADMIN 255/24, updated via NAVADMIN 112/25). How to interpret these factors →

    Additional E-5 pathway

    Auto E-5

    STAR Reenlistment + C-School

    Automatic E-5 for first-term Sailors who lock in a qualifying course

    The Selective Training and Reenlistment (STAR) program lets above-average first-term Sailors reenlist in exchange for a guaranteed C-school slot. If the school is on the Navy Career Schools Listing (CSL) at the time of reenlistment, the deal also includes automatic advancement to E-5 — no exam, no wait. Governed by MILPERSMAN 1160-100. One-time benefit per career: if you use STAR to auto-advance to E-5, you are not eligible for a subsequent guaranteed C-school later.

    Qualifying C-schools for this rate

    • E-6B Flight Engineer

      NEC G20A
      CIN E-050-04014-yr OBLISERV

      Must complete NACCS, A-School, SERE and FRS to be awarded G20A NEC. Aircrew package IAW MILPERSMAN 1220-010 must be sent to Aircrew ECM for screening and approval. OBLISERV 4 years from completion of FRS.

    Source: Current Career Schools Listing (CSL), dated 04 March 2026. The Navy refreshes the CSL every 1–2 years — verify the current list with your Career Counselor (CCC) before locking in a reenlistment.

    —

    Third Reenlistment (10 to 14 yrs Active Duty)

    Not eligible

    G35ACMV-22 Multi-Mission Tiltrotor Aircrewman

    Possesses the strength, flexibility and endurance to perform in-flight and ground duties as CMV-22B Aircrewman in environmental extremes afloat and ashore. Operates aircraft systems, performs weight and balance, cargo and personnel transfer and patient movement in support of COD, VOD, CASEVAC, special warfare support and Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief (HA/DR) operations.

    Requirements

    • Secret security clearance required.
    • Depth perception requirements are outlined in MANNED, see Class II Rotary Wing Aircrew standard.
    • CIN D-050-2200 is an alternate course of instruction for Navy personnel attending USCM V-22 training. 70

    Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB)

    🟢

    First Reenlistment (17 mo to 6 yrs Active Duty)

    $45,000

    Max

    Newly Added

    🔴

    Second Reenlistment (6 to 10 yrs Active Duty)

    $45,000

    Max

    Being Eliminated · effective 2025-12-18

    —

    Third Reenlistment (10 to 14 yrs Active Duty)

    Not eligible

    G16AC-40A Crew Chief

    Performs in-flight duties as a C-40A Crew Chief, knowledgeable of all aircraft systems, emergency procedures and flight equipment.

    Requirements

    • FTS/SELRES only. Earned through commercially procured training course provided by Reserve VR Wing.
    • All Crew Chiefs attempting to attain this NEC code are required to attend mandatory commercial training course C-40 Ground School and Simulator Instruction Course from American Airlines prior to qualification.
    G22AC-20/C-37 Crew Chief

    Performs in-flight and ground duties as a Gulfstream III/IV/V Flight Engineer/Mechanic. Is knowledgeable on all aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and flight equipment.

    G25AC-130 Flight Engineer

    Performs in-flight duties as a C-130 flight engineer. Is knowledgeable of all aircraft systems, emergency procedures and flight equipment.

    G28AC-2 Transport Aircrewman

    Performs in-flight duties as a transport aircrewman on C-2 aircraft. Performs and supervises inspections, maintenance, loading, rigging, internal cargo handling and weight and balance. Is knowledgeable of aircraft systems, emergency procedures and flight equipment.

    G31AMQ-8B/C Air Vehicle Operator (AVO)

    Develops and inputs Air Vehicle flight plan. Directs, monitors, and provides input changes to Air Vehicle in-flight.

    Requirements

    • NEC may be awarded through cadre training pending establishment of formal training.
    • Flight Physical must be completed prior to arrival in accordance with aero-medical reference and waiver guide and NAVMED P117.
    • Physical Qualification-Class Two Physical.
    G51AC-130 Second Loadmaster

    Performs in-flight duties as a loadmaster assistant. Performs maintenance, rigging, and in-flight functions of internal cargo handling for C-130 aircraft. Personnel are knowledgeable of aircraft systems, passenger handling, safety procedures and equipment, federal and military regulation for passenger transport, emergency procedures and aircraft equipment.

    Requirements

    • NEC code is for Selected Reserve (SELRES) personnel only.
    G53AC-130 Loadmaster

    Performs in-flight duties as a Loadmaster in the C-130 aircraft. Performs and supervises the loading, rigging, and weight and balance calculations for internal cargo on C-130 aircraft. Is knowledgeable of aircraft systems, aircraft flight procedures and in-flight emergency procedures.

    G54AE-6B REEL System Operator

    Performs in-flight operation of the E-6B Dual trailing wire antenna system.

    Requirements

    • Must have a Top Secret/SCI security clearance and be PRP eligible.
    G57AC-12/C26 Transport Aircrewman

    Performs in-flight and on ground duties as a Loadmaster in UC-12 and UC-26 aircraft. Performs and supervises loading of passengers and cargo, weight and balance, and in-flight functions of internal passenger and cargo handling, and hazardous material for UC-12 and UC-26 aircraft. Possesses knowledge of aircraft systems, emergency procedures and flight equipment.

    Requirements

    • Individual must complete OJT and obtain CO/OIC recommendation to earn NEC code.
    • Submission of NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's/OIC's recommendation to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC code.
    G60AP-3 Flight Engineer

    Performs in-flight duties as a P-3 flight engineer. Is knowledgeable of all aircraft systems, emergency procedures and flight equipment.

    G63ALoadmaster

    Performs in-flight duties as a Loadmaster in C-20, C-37 and C-40A aircraft. Performs and supervises loading, rigging, weight and balance, and in- flight functions of internal cargo handling and hazardous material for fixed wing aircraft. Is knowledgeable of aircraft systems, emergency procedures and flight equipment.

    700JLanding Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) Propulsion and Auxiliary Systems Maintenance Technician

    Performs Organizational and Intermediate Level Maintenance on LCAC-100 Propulsion and Auxiliary Systems.

    Requirements

    • Member must complete the LCAC-100 Maintainer Differences Trainer.
    • Member must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's endorsement to BUPERS 312 for awarding of this NEC code.
    717BSmall Arms Marksmanship Instructor

    Performs specific duties as a Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor. Conducts training in all phases of basic marksmanship, both ashore and afloat, including firearms safety, mechanical training on small arms, instructional and qualification firing, basic range operations, records and reports. Performs preventive maintenance on small arms.

    Requirements

    • Personnel who have previously earned either M01A, M02A, M03A, M04A, M05A, O20A, O23A, O26A, O29A or 757B NEC code may be awarded this NEC code upon completion of formal training.
    • Source ratings AW, AWR, and AWS must hold NEC code G02A prior to assignment of this NEC code.
    • For all additional Source Ratings other than AO, AW, AWF, AWR, AWS, BU, CB, CE, CM, CU, EA, EO, EOD, FC, FCA, GM, MA, MN, ND, SB, SO, STG, SW, TM and UT, this NEC code may be awarded to personnel but will not be used to identify additional Source Ratings on billets.
    • Awarding of this NEC code for Source Rating AW (E9) only applies to SELRES personnel.
    724BAviation Maintenance Material Control Master Chief

    Assists the Maintenance Material Control Officer in squadrons or Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Departments in carrying out readiness responsibilities. Provides liaison between the Maintenance Material Control Officer and the Production Division supervisors.

    Requirements

    • The AWF "Source Rating" is limited to the FTS community members who have previously earned the NEC code prior to 1 October 2008 ONLY. This NEC code is not authorized for NEW assignment to AWF members who did not previously earn the NEC code prior to 1 October 2008.
    • Due to the unique nature of the AWF FTS community, personnel who earned NEC codes 724B or 770B prior to the fixed wing AW rating merger may reapply for reinstatement of their previously awarded 724B or 770B. Member must provide documentation and NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS- 312 via BUPERS-312 (Aviation ECM) showing NEC code was previously awarded or member completed all prerequisites prior to 1 October 2008. All AWF FTS personnel who previously held 770B and request reinstatement, will also be eligible to request 724B, provided all requirements are met. Awarding of this NEC code for Source Rating AW (E9) only applies to SELRES personnel.
    • For all other listed "Source Ratings" to be awarded this NEC code, personnel must be a Senior Chief or Master Chief who has held one or more of the following billets while at the E8 or E9 paygrade; and must have served in the billet for at least 12 consecutive months: Maintenance Control Supervisor, Production Control Supervisor, Quality Assurance Supervisor (O or I Level), Special Reconnaissance Team (SRT) LCPO. NEC code shall only be awarded to E8 and E9 personnel who are currently filling the role in one of the requisite billets at the O-Level, I-Level, or SRT. Requests to award the NEC code shall be made by the command where the member fulfilled the billet requirement. "FROCKED" E8 personnel are not eligible to hold the NEC code. Submit documentation of completed prerequisite billet along with NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS-312 via the ECM.
    • Commanding Officers, Executive Officers, Maintenance Officers (at I-Level), or Officers in Charge are the approving authority to sign the NAVPERS 1221-6 requesting the 724B NEC code. Signature authority shall not be delegated.
    • Requests submitted from non-maintenance commands will not normally be considered. In the event that operational or other commitments preclude submission by the command where the qualifying duty was performed, the requesting personnel shall submit an endorsement from that command along with the official request from the current command.
    • Source rated personnel at the O-Level shall be Safe-For-Flight (SFF) qualified in the current type/model/series aircraft prior to awarding the NEC code. VX squadron personnel must be qualified in at least one platform of aircraft type/model/series.
    • Source rated personnel at the I-level shall complete the required Production Control PQS/JQR.
    • Source rated personnel (not including AW) assigned to SRT operating UAV's may qualify for the NEC code after completion of Maintenance Course, Operator Course, type/model Safe-For-Flight PQS, and at least one deployment cycle.
    730BLCAC Mechanical Systems Maintenance Technician

    Performs organizational and intermediate level maintenance on LCAC propulsion and lift systems.

    749BMain Propulsion Steam Generating Plant Inspector

    Inspects material condition, monitors general readiness, and diagnoses improper operating procedures and equipment casualties/failures. Recommends operations and maintenance corrective measures.

    Requirements

    • Member must be mission-qualified flight crew member (E4 or above; mission qualification granted by the parent command) and have at least 18 months remaining on current PCS tour upon completion of CRMIT.
    • Must submit NAVPERS 1221/6 with Commanding Officer's recommendation to BUPERS-312 for awarding of this NEC code.
    757FMQ-8B/C Mission Payload Operator (MPO)

    Operates MQ-8B/C mission payload during flight.

    Requirements

    • NEC may be awarded through cadre training pending establishment of formal training.
    • Flight Physical must be completed prior to arrival in accordance with aero-medical reference and waiver guide and NAVMED P117.
    • Physical Qualification-Class Two Physical.
    770BAviation Maintenance/Production Chief

    Supervises organizational and intermediate level maintenance on the Naval aircraft, aircraft components, aircraft engines, ground support equipment and Aviators Life Support Systems.

    Requirements

    • The AWF "Source Rating" is limited to the FTS community members who previously earned the NEC code prior to 1 October 2008 ONLY. This NEC code is not authorized for NEW assignment to AWF members who did not previously earn the NEC code prior to 1 October 2008.
    • Due to the unique nature of the AWF FTS community, personnel who earned the NEC codes 724B or 770B prior to the fixed wing AW rating merger may reapply for reinstatement of their previously awarded 724B or 770B. Member must provide documentation and NAVPERS 1221/6 to BUPERS- 312 via BUPERS-312 (Aviation ECM) showing NEC code was previously awarded or member completed all prerequisites prior to 1 October 2008. All AWF FTS personnel who previously held the 770B and request reinstatement, will also be eligible to request the 724B, provided all requirements are met.
    • Awarding of this NEC code for Source Rating AW (E9) only applies to SELRES personnel.
    • NEC is authorized for Billet Paygrades E7-E9 for TAR and SELRES.
    776ANaval Aircrewman (Special Assignment)

    Performs in-flight duties as assigned in support of command mission.

    Requirements

    • Personnel assigned to this DNEC are assigned to BUPERS designated special billets with joint services, foreign services and special assignments where USN coding is not applicable.
    • This NEC is assigned as a distributive NEC only to personnel by BUPERS and billets may be coded only with prior BUPERS concurrence.
    • The use, applicability and retention of this NEC are of a restricted nature.
    • The goal is to prevent entry level naval aircrewmen assigned to these billets from trying to earn aircrew designation without complying with the requirements established for all naval aircrewmen.
    • Joint airborne command post personnel assigned to USSTRATCOM are also eligible to be awarded NEC code 776A with Commanding Officer's endorsement. NEC code may be awarded after completion of one year as a qualified airborne battlestaff crewmember. This NEC code may be awarded to personnel in other ratings but will not be used to identify additional Source Ratings on billets.
    777AWeapons and Tactics Instructor

    Performs in an instructor billet at Weapons Schools, Type Wings, and Aviation Squadrons within the classroom, lab/simulator, or during training flights. Performs in flight duties as an Aircrewman, Instructor, and Evaluator. Rotary wing and Airborne Command Control and Logistics aircrew perform in-flight duties as an Aircrewman, Instructor, and Evaluator.

    Requirements

    • All aircrew attending prerequisite courses must be in an UP status for flying, must be NATOPS current and qualified in model.
    • "Rotary Wing" CIN: S-050-0836 required for AWR and AWS only. Candidates must be ACTC Level III, meet NAWDC minimum flight time requirements, and pass instructor screening. Through training process, instructor will qualify as range Safety Officer for training events, as well as Small Arms Marksmanship Instructors (SAMI) and Aerial Gunnery Instructors (AGI).
    • "VP" candidates for the MPRA WTI course must be ACTC Level IV; graduates will be identified as WTI/ACTC Level 500 instructors.
    • "VQ/VPU" candidates for the Reconnaissance Tactics Instructor Course (RTIC) must be ACTC Level IV; graduates will be identified as WTI/ACTC Level 500 instructors.
    • "VQ(T)" candidates for the Mercury Tactics Instructor Course (MTIC) must be ACTC Level 400; graduates will be identified as WTI/ACTC Level 500 instructors. SAMI and HAGI are not required for VQ(T) ACTC 500 Aircrewmen.
    • "VRC/VRM" candidates for the Combat Logistics Instructor (CLI) Course in the C-2A or CMV-22 must complete the Combat Logistics Systems course, COD Advanced Readiness Program, Navy Instructor Training Course (NITC), and ACTC Level IV. Graduates will be identified as CLI/ACTC Level 500 instructors.
    785ISpecial Operations Forces (SOF) Advanced Technical Systems Operator (ATSO)

    Performs full-spectrum advanced technical system operations support as assigned in support of SOF mission-sets. When augmented to Joint Task Forces (JTFs), operationally leverages advanced technical systems and capabilities in the maritime, air, ground, and space domains.

    Requirements

    • Member must possess a TS/SCI security clearance.
    • Member must be assessed and selected for special duty assignment to a CNO Priority One Command.
    • Member must complete JSOC ATSOTC.
    • Member will retain all previously earned NEC codes upon awarding of this NEC. 274
    788AAcquisition Specialist

    Perform critical functions within acquisition type activities (i.e., Integrated Logistics Support (ILS), Naval Air Training Management Support Activity (NATMSACT) as defined in DoD Directive 5000.1 and DoD Instruction 5000.2.

    Requirements

    • NEC code awarded after one year of acquisition billet service, and completion of the currently published Defense Acquisition University (DAU) courses for Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) foundational certification in Lifecycle Logistics (LCL) and/or Test & Evaluation (T&E).
    • DAWIA training courses are obtained and funded for Navy personnel through the Defense Acquisition Talent Management (DATM) Office via the DON Acquisition Training Registrar, Naval Acquisition Career Management Center, 5450 Carlisle Pike, P.O. Box 2033, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 using quotas that are assigned to the requesting command. Individuals must be currently in or ordered to an identified Acquisition billet.
    Family Friendly

    6.8/10

    Schools + spouse jobs

    Base Housing Wait

    8 months

    Avg waitlist for on-base

    Cost of Living

    92

    100 = national avg

    View all stations →

    ✈️ Related Navy Ratings in Aviation

    Other aviation ratings sailors often compare against AWF Aircrewman Helicopter.

    ABEAviation Boatswain's Mate - Launch & RecoveryABFAviation Boatswain's Mate FuelsABHAviation Boatswain's Mate HandlingACAir Traffic ControllerADAviation Machinist's MateAEAviation Electrician's MateAGAerographer's MateAMAviation Structural MechanicAMEAviation Structural Mechanic – EquipmentAOAviation OrdnancemanASAviation Support Equipment TechnicianATAviation Electronics TechnicianAWNaval AircrewmanAWOAircrewman OperatorAWRAircrewman Tactical HelicopterAWSAircrewman HelicopterAWVAircrewman AvionicsAZAviation Maintenance AdministrationmanPRAircrew Survival Equipmentman
    Compare AWF side-by-side with these ratings→

    Real questions from people considering Aircrewman Helicopter, answered by current and former sailors.

    No questions yet for Aircrewman Helicopter.

    Be the first to ask!

    0/500