RETAIN Act of 2026

This bill would require military aviation officers who have completed more than 8 years of aviation service to receive the maximum monthly amount of aviation incentive pay. It would also change an Air Force program meant to keep rated officers (such as pilots) in service. Under the changes, eligible officers could sign retention agreements of one year instead of four, could be offered preferred duty locations or non-flying staff roles, and could receive an aviation bonus averaging up to $100,000 per year. The bill would require Air Force offers to match or exceed the contract options and bonus amounts offered by the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, and would extend the program's end date from 2028 to 2031.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Ted Budd Republican sponsor
• 7 cosponsors