How long must an A1C serve actively to qualify for the Below the Zone promotion?

To qualify for a Below the Zone (BTZ) promotion, an Airman First Class (A1C) must serve actively for 12 months. This specific time requirement is established to ensure that Airmen have gained sufficient experience, demonstrated their capability and performance, and have shown readiness for promotion before being considered for this competitive advancement.

Promotions through the BTZ program are based not only on time in service but also on performance and potential, making the 12-month requirement an essential benchmark. It allows leaders to assess the Airman's performance and contributions to the unit adequately prior to promotion. This timeframe enables Airmen to embody and exemplify the responsibilities that come with advancement to the next rank, supporting their career growth and the overall effectiveness of the Air Force.