the document addresses the question of the degree to which United States Air Force (USAF) pilot skills deteriorate as a function of reduced or deleted aircraft flying time. An examination of the results of several studies concerning the effects of periods of inactivity on pilot skill retention and subsequent retraining requirements indicate that a more efficient and cost-effective method for maintaining a pool of near combat-ready pilots may be possible. Adoption of an annual massed retraining program (as opposed to the present method of conducting continuation training over a full year) could achieve a reduction of more than 50% in required aircraft flying hours. Data from these studies suggest that if USAF pilot requirements permit, recurrent training could be delayed for an indefinite number of years with no significant increase in the average number of aircraft hours required per pilot when such recurrent training is conducted. The data also suggest that the use of high fidelity instrument and procedures simulators, during non-aircraft flying periods, would foster overlearning of system operation and voice procedures and the maintenance of limited motor skills. Integration of training in these devices into the aircraft recurrent training course would enhance the effectiveness of the total program. (Author/EC)