Pay and allowances
The RAF Reserves will pay you while you undergo training. We’ll even contribute towards your travel costs from home to your local place of duty.
Receive an annual tax-free ‘bounty’
You’ll also receive a tax-free lump sum (called a ‘bounty’), provided you complete your annual training commitment to the RAF Reserves. Currently, the amount starts at £424 in your first year and rises to £1,674 after five years’ service.
Rates of pay
Once you join, you’ll be paid a daily rate which is determined by your rank, your role and your level of experience.
RAF Reservists: daily rates of pay for airmen/airwomen
Rank | Peacetime pay |
New entrant | £35.67 |
Leading/Senior Aircraftman or Aircraftwoman | £44.17–£61.10 |
Corporal | £66.58–£75.25 |
Sergeant | £75.68–£86.02 |
Flight Sergeant | £83.78–£99.93 |
Warrant Officer | £97.34–£111.26 |
RAF Reservists: daily rates of pay for officers
Rank | Peacetime pay |
Pilot Officer | £62.07 |
Flying Officer | £74.61–£82.47 |
Flight Lieutenant | £95.61–£113.70 |
Squadron Leader | £120.44–£144.24 |
There are different pay scales for some specialist officers and for people who join as graduates or with professional qualifications.
Within the pay scales above, your salary will be determined by your experience and your performance.
Please note that the Ministry of Defence reviews pay rates on an annual basis.
