Best way to take leave between OCS and API

[znm7584]

I am currently at OCS and there is very little information or good "gouge" on what is the best way to take leave. I am aware of the long 6 month wait in A-pool, but is it better to take leave prior to checking in to flight management or is it better to check in and then take leave? The fact that OCS and API are both temporary duty stations and my permanent duty station is over a thousand miles away really makes the logistics of this decision complicated.

Would taking leave in addition to picking up my stuff before going to API delay the process even longer? And if I check into API and then take leave do I lose my travel time to pick up my stuff?

 

[Red2]

Well, if you wait until after you check into API you will have to complete IFS (unless you have prior flight time), BOLTC, NAMI, and Swim/PRT screen before you can take leave. Now that is the "official" version. If you are scheduled to complete those events and taking leave won't delay your class up date, they should approve it. I took leave before starting IFS.

I would check in first since your class up date is determined by when you check in. Once you have an idea of when you are classing up you can go and request leave, just make sure you finish those A-pool events.

 

[xof]

When you take leave (between OCS/API or in API) depends on what you're taking leave for and how long it'll be. Remember, the clock doesn't start ticking for your infinite wait in the A-pool until you check in, so assuming you don't want to wait in Pensacola forever, check in first and then take leave.

I should mention that spending eternity in A-pool does have its merits, namely more per diem (which you get after you finish, depending on where you go for primary), getting a second job, or generally doing absolutely nothing. Your call.

 

[flashypants]

Well, if you wait until after you check into API you will have to complete IFS (unless you have prior flight time), BOLTC, NAMI, and Swim/PRT screen before you can take leave.

This is the "rule" for API leave, but it's really on a case-by-case basis. I took leave in the middle of IFS to stand in my sister's wedding. If you need leave for urgent or important matters, such as standing in a wedding, you can submit a leave chit and possibly be granted leave without completing all of the above items. If you want to take leave for taking leave's sake, you'll have to complete the items mentioned before you're approved.