Overview

• The Air Force faces a critical manning shortage, prompting the revival of the Voluntary Retired Return to Active Duty Program (VRRAD) to recruit up to 1,000 retirees.
• Retirees returning to active duty will fill a variety of special duty positions, including pilots and air traffic control, but will not be eligible for aviation bonuses or promotions.
• The recruitment effort comes as the Air Force continues to grapple with a persistent shortage of about 2,000 pilots and missed its annual aviator training goal.
• Critics argue the program offers "zero incentives" for retirees to return, citing the lack of bonuses, promotions, and the requirement to meet physical fitness standards.
• Applications for the program, which began on February 8, 2024, will be accepted through January 31, 2026, with retirees expected to return to duty within four to six months of application.