New
skillbridge policies, AFI 36-2671 & SPFI 36-2672, were published on 31 Mar 26 with MAJOR revisions that introduce rank-based program categories, clarify CC approval authorities, and formally codify that manpower backfills are prohibited for Airmen & Guardians. Skillbridge applications approved BEFORE 31 Mar 26, are not subject to new requirements.
- Tiered Program Lengths: Each service established separate program duration limits based on rank to balance transition opportunities with operational readiness. By prioritizing transition support for its junior members and ensuring experienced leaders remain focused on the mission, the Air Force continues to build a stronger, more resilient force, ready for today's challenges and prepared for tomorrow's opportunities.
- USAF:
- 120-day maximum for ranks E-1 to E-5 and O-1 to O-3.
- 90-day maximum for ranks E-6 to E-7, WO to CWO-3, and O-4.
- 60-day maximum for ranks E-8 to E-9, CWO-4 to CWO-5, and O-5.
- Officers in the grade of O-6 are not eligible to participate in SkillBridge without an approved Exception to Policy (ETP) for rare circumstances.
- USSF:
- 120-day maximum for ranks E-1 to E-8 and O-1 to O-4.
- 90-day maximum for ranks E-9 and O-5 & above.
- Clarified Approval Authorities: The policy clearly defines the application approval level for each rank, ensuring appropriate oversight for both active-duty Airmen and Air Reserve Command (ARC).
- No Backfills Authorized: Reinforces units will not receive manpower backfills for members participating in SkillBridge. Commanders must weigh the impact of temporary manpower deficits when approving applications.
- Formalized Exception Process: A formal Exception to Policy (ETP) process is now established for unique cases, such as members undergoing a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), or SecWar and SecAF priorities.
INITIAL ENLISTEMENT BONUS PROGRAM IEB LINK
The attached table outlines the AFSCs eligible to receive an IEB for a 6-year enlistment between the dates of 1 Apr 26- 30 Sep 26.
REGAF AVIATION BONUS INQUIRY REGAF BONUS INQUIRY
The FY26 Aviation Bonus (Legacy & Demo) application window will open 1 Apr 26 @ 0800 CDT. The application window will remain open until 21 May 2026 @ 2359 CDT. However, the program application window will close early if the budgetary maximum number of contracts are met before 31 May 2026.
Enlisted Force Development- EPME Scheduling & Deferment Procedure Version 3-
PSDG attached has been updated to reflect: HQ/AFPC Military training Sharepoint Link, Deferment approval authorities, CLA & CLC priority levels, added attachment 1 Ex. EPME Derment Memo & Foundations Courses Waiver Memorandum Templates.
Special Duty Assignment Pay SDAP Link-
The FY26 SDAP Tables are effective 1 October 2025. Changes and processing instructions are highlighted and annotated in the FY26 SDAP Tables "Notes" section of each rule.
The SDAP Tables list all duties and eligibility requirements. To receive SDAP, a member must:
- Be qualified, trained and/or certified AND performing the duty independently.
- Meet all eligibility requirements listed in the rule.
- As required, initiate an DAF Form 2096, Classification/On-the-Job Training Action, for supervisor signature and unit commander certification. An Airman or Guardian may seek assistance from their Commander’s Support Staff (CSS) or servicing Military Personnel Flight (MPF) to initiate the DAF Form 2096. Once the commander signs the DAF Form 2096 then send to the MPF (Force Management Section) for Military Personnel Data System (MILPDS) update. The MILPDS update automatically generates a pay transaction to DFAS.
SDAP Tables