I have always wanted to be a pilot for both the RAF and Commercial airlines. Would it be possible for me to serve, for say 6 months in the RAF, and then when not deployed work as a commercial pilot. Just asking this as I saw a video a few months ago of a US Air Force member who works for United when he is not working for the USAF. Thanks - Jay.
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5$\begingroup$ What you probably saw was an Air Force Reserve pilot working for United, active duty cannot hold another job. $\endgroup$– Ron BeyerCommented Nov 23, 2019 at 15:04
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$\begingroup$ I agree it was probably a reservist, but active duty military members may hold another job, it just cannot conflict with military duties. Flying for a commercial airline would likely not work out, but I have known several people who worked as CFIs on the side. $\endgroup$– Michael HallCommented Nov 23, 2019 at 19:11
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$\begingroup$ Ok, thank you for this information, I was just interested. $\endgroup$– JayAviationCommented Nov 23, 2019 at 20:33
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$\begingroup$ I expect the Royal Air Force Reserves would consider someone who is already qualified for the aircraft. Most likely someone who has just left the full time RAF with transport experience. $\endgroup$– Ian RingroseCommented Nov 25, 2019 at 9:24
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Basic officer training in the RAF takes 30 weeks, so you're already over your six months, even before you start pilot training.
When you sign up you enlist for a minimum period which varies according to your speciality. Six to twelve years is typical. Source
Assuming you get through pilot training and make it to a squadron, you're not going to just sit around and wait for a war. There's ongoing training, exercises, active deployments and other duties that will take up your time. Whilst there will be periods where your working life will be 9-to-5, there will also be periods where you'll be working nights, weekends, public holidays, and away from home.
I don't know what the RAF policy on second jobs is, but for practical reasons I can't see that you would be able to drive buses for easyJet or the like.
answered Nov 23, 2019 at 19:46
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$\begingroup$ As noted by Ron Beyer in a comment above, it is technically allowable for any member of the UK armed forces to have a second job, but it must not conflict with the requirements of their service, which makes anything other than a hobby-job completely impracticable. Even during time-off, there are various levels of requirement to remain available. $\endgroup$– MikeBCommented Sep 1, 2022 at 16:47