What happens if an enlisted Airman is on TDY outside the CAFSC?

When an enlisted Airman is on Temporary Duty (TDY) outside their Control Air Force Specialty Code (CAFSC), they retain their Duty Air Force Specialty Code (DAFSC). This is essential because the DAFSC indicates the specialty the Airman is currently performing and is typically aligned with their assigned duties, while the CAFSC reflects their primary training and qualification.

Retaining the DAFSC ensures that the Airman’s record remains intact and does not incorrectly reflect a change of specialty due to temporary assignments. The action of being assigned TDY to a task outside their specialty does not fundamentally alter their qualifications or overall career path within the Air Force.

The other options, such as a change to their CAFSC or becoming ineligible for assignments, would misrepresent the implications of being temporarily assigned outside of their primary specialty. When an Airman is on TDY, their primary duties and qualifications are still recognized, which allows them to continue their career progression without disruption solely due to the specifics of their temporary duty. Extra pay is unrelated to the maintenance of their specialty code and is not a direct result of TDY status.