The USAF cites Pilot Shortages as a National Problem

Compared to past periods and conditions the USAF expresses that the pilot shortage is more dire than during the era in the late 1970s when it was widely referred to as the “Hollow Force.”  Current active duty pilots fly fewer hours and fewer sorties.  They averaged 20 flying hours per month in the ‘70s, and today the average is only 14 hours, which makes retaining pilots very difficult.  This becomes especially challenging when the Airline Industry is hiring 4,000 commercial pilots per year.

To meet its missions and readiness the USAF needs to retain 65 percent of its trained pilots. Only approximately half that number currently stay in the service.  The USAF needs 1,500 more pilots and 3,400 more maintainers.  Most significantly, there is a shortage of 723 Fighter Pilots.  One solution being considered is allowing pilots a seamless transition between Active Duty Service and Reserve or Air Guard Units.

(source:  Air Force Magazine)