DAFPD36-25 governs Department of the Air Force policies for military promotion and demotion programs.
View DAFPD36-25 on armypubs.army.mil
It establishes policies for appointing military officers, advancing Airmen and Guardians, and demoting them when appropriate. It requires promotion assessments based on potential for the next higher grade and establishes personnel management responsibilities.
Applies to: This publication applies to uniformed members of the United States Space Force, Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard.
The Department of the Air Force will appoint as military officers those qualified individuals, enlisted members, and officers who possess the skills necessary to meet the needs of the Department of the Air Force and clearly have demonstrated the potential for full military careers. (paragraph 2)
The Department of the Air Force promotion system will provide promotion opportunities to advance Airmen and Guardians with the appropriate experience and skills to fill projected requirements, consistent with federal law and Department of Defense policies and procedures. (paragraph 2)
Airmen and Guardians will be assessed for promotion based on their potential to serve in the next higher grade. (paragraph 2)
Airmen and Guardians who are not qualified for advancement to the next higher grade will not be promoted. (paragraph 2)
When appropriate, and as permitted by law and consistent with Department of Defense policy, Airmen and Guardians will be demoted to a grade commensurate with their demonstrated abilities and skills. (paragraph 2)