The use of analysis in the development of specific policy and legislation at the national level: An analysis to effect policy and legislation regarding the obligated service, retention, and compensation of naval aviators

This study describes and documents analytical research used by the Department of the Navy to provide support for a legislative action making the naval aviator active duty service obligation 7 years and providing for an increased retention bonus. The study was based on a report conducted by the author in his capacity as an Admiral in the U.S. Navy and Director of Naval Aviation Manpower and Training. The study serves as an example of the kind of research required to influence decisions at the highest level of government.;The original report and the body of this dissertation carefully gathers and analytically presents pertinent facts and data regarding: (a) commercial airline hiring trends, (b) pilot retention factors, (c) compensation measures, (d) Navy pilot requirements, (e) career path options, (f) active duty obligation, (g) pilot training rates, (h) pilots required for instructor duty, (i) recruiting climate, (j) and quality of life issues.;Conclusions of the study were that pilot retention is inversely and closely correlated to commercial airline hiring. Navy pilot job satisfaction is high because of the work itself, but dissatisfaction is also high because of family separation. The study demonstrates that a 7-year active duty service obligation is optimum in terms of career management and training cost per pilot. The study specifically shows that a targeted bonus of up to ;The final portion of the dissertation details the process of developing policy and influencing legislation by the articulate presentation of data and the quantification of decision aspects normally perceived as qualitative issues.;Because actual legislation resulted, in part, from the effect of this study, the study can be used as a practical model of the steps required to influence policy in and legislation for complex organizations. It is of particular interest to those concerned with the retention of highly trained and educated professionals.