More than 1,300 airmen have chosen to leave active duty service early, Air Force Times reported. The Air Force offered many early departure offers to return to its desired force size after a near-record number of airmen chose to stay in the service during the COVID-19 pandemic, when jobs – including those in aviation – were scarce.

“These voluntary programs helped balance the size of the force while providing flexible options that met some of our [airmen’s] needs and goals,” Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel and services, said last month.

Through last week, about 850 people opted to retire or separate from service. Almost 500 others have chosen to transfer their service commitment to the Guard or Reserve.

Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Jonathan Young