Army offers bonuses topping $200K to keep aviation warrant officers in uniform
By Eve Sampson
Aug 3, 2026, 11:16 AM
Eligible U.S. Army pilots can earn up to nearly $210,000 in retention bonuses under a fiscal 2026 program designed to keep experienced aviators in uniform, the service announced in a directive dated July 26.
The program is open to Army aviation warrant officers who meet specific career requirements and agree to remain on active duty for three to six additional years.
The move, first reported by Task & Purpose, comes as the Navy and Air Force are also offering hefty bonuses to keep select experienced aviators in the service.
Warrant officers with 12 to 14 years of active federal service can pocket up to $75,600 by committing to three more years on active duty. Those with at least 18 years of service can qualify for bonuses ranging from $120,000 to $209,880 in exchange for four- to six-year commitments.
https://www.militarytimes.com/pay-benefits/2026/08/03/army-offers-bonuses-topping-200k-to-keep-aviation-warrant-officers-in-unform/