ATTRITION IN THE AIR WING: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY ON FLIGHT HOURS AND MARINE PILOT RETENTION
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Authors
Huggins, Benjamin P.
Subjects
pilot
flight hours
Marine Corps
retention
flight hours
Marine Corps
retention
Advisors
Massenkoff, Maxim
Date of Issue
2024-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The retention of Marine Corps pilots is challenged by civilian sector demand, aging fleets, and work-life balance issues. Despite extensive qualitative research on retention factors, the quantitative link between pilots’ flight hours and their retention decisions remains underexplored. This study investigates the correlation between individual flight hours and Marine pilots’ decisions to stay or leave the Service, aiming to offer insights into future retention strategies. Findings reveal that aircraft type, years of experience, and level of qualification own most of the contribution toward flight hour variance among pilots. Models also suggest that pilots who fly more frequently are more likely to separate, as they may be more marketable or more acutely experiencing burnout. Finally, the study suggests that the timing of flight hours is more critical than the average monthly hours for retention, with different patterns observed among rotary-wing (RW), fixed-wing (FW), and tiltrotor (TR) pilots. The research recommends a tailored approach to retention strategies specific to each aircraft community, emphasizing the timing of milestone-driven aviation bonuses and the need for non-monetary incentives. Future studies should expand the dataset and observation period for a more comprehensive understanding of retention dynamics.
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Thesis
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Department
Department of Defense Management (DDM)
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.