On average, when do pilots stop flying and end up behind a desk? Can you avoid this outcome by getting a C-37 or similar job?

C17wannabe, Check your "personal messages", go to "my profile" at the top of the page and then once your on "my profile" go to the bottom of that page to read them.

Eventually in the AD AF you'll be assigned a desk doing Staff work at some command somewhere or Pentagon stuff. They start searching for you at the Major level for the most part, some Capt, but more LTC's. Watch out if you go to ACSC for majors in residence, its good for promotion sake - but the leadership folks pass through here alot looking for flight boots to put under a desk. Lots of whining going on around here, but that's the game they're signed into! Just fly with the AD for awhile and find Reserve component unit to cross into later on. Doesn't mean you can't do a Staffer job, but you'll have to put in for it!

In addition to staff, there are also ALO tours that doesn’t involve flying. This can happen at any time – it will more than likely by your second or third tour if you’re going to get one. Most guys will take their staff tours no earlier than mid-level majors. As long as you’re interested in flying, you’ll generally get back in the cockpit after each of these tours.