Latest "below-the-zone" stories

Air Force Col. Elizabeth Aptekar, 60th Mission Support Group commander, stands in front of the 60th MSG formation during the 60th Air Mobility Wing change of command ceremony at Travis Air Force Base, California, July 27, 2022. (Nicholas Pilch/Air Force)

Officer promotions still competitive, but no decision on 5-year window

The Air Force is comfortable with how its officer jobs are spread across the ranks.

By Rachel S. Cohen

5 months ago

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jason Horn, commander, 139th Medical Group, Missouri Air National Guard, is promoted to the rank of colonel by his wife, son and daughter at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Sept. 11, 2021. (Airman Janae Masoner/Air National Guard)

Over 500 airmen promoted to colonel as open slots stagnate

About one-third of eligible lieutenant colonels — 555 of nearly 1,800 — were tapped to pin on the full bird.

By Rachel S. Cohen

6 months ago

The promotion outlook: What lies ahead for Air Force officers and enlisted airmen

Personnel management updates aim to reward both good performance and time in service; give airmen with different skill sets a fairer shot at promotion; and judge people on their character and competence rather than popularity.

By Rachel S. Cohen

17 months ago

In first lieutenant colonel board without below-the-zone candidates, promotion rates up for other officers

This is the first promotion board since the Air Force unveiled a major overhaul of the officer promotion system last December. The names of those selected will be released Tuesday, AFPC said.

By Stephen Losey

2 years ago

Air Force to drop below-the-zone promotions for officers

Chief of Staff Gen. Dave Goldfein plans to talk about the changes with commanders next Monday.

By Stephen Losey

3 years ago

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