Becoming a Helicopter Pilot in the Army
Are you interested in learning how to fly a helicopter in the army? Serving as a helicopter pilot can be a rewarding and thrilling career, offering a challenging and dynamic environment. Becoming a helicopter pilot in the army requires dedication, hard work, and specialized training. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to become a helicopter pilot in the army.
**Step 1: Meet the Army’s Eligibility Requirements**
To become a helicopter pilot in the army, you need to meet the following basic eligibility requirements:
* Must be a U.S. citizen
* Must be between the ages of 17 and 35, with some exceptions for military veterans
* Must hold a high school diploma (or equivalent)
* Must pass a physical fitness test
* Must pass a background check
**Step 2: Enroll in a College or Technical School**
To become an army helicopter pilot, you need to have a foundation in aviation. You should enroll in a college or technical school that offers aviation programs, such as flying, aviation maintenance, or aviation management. **Top schools for aviation programs may include**:
*Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
*Indiana State University
*Utah Valley University
*Kennesaw State University**
**Step 3: Gain Eligibility for the Army Aircrew**
To become eligible for the army aircrew, you need to attend the Army Aviation Branch selection board. **To prepare for the selection board,** you should:
* Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher
* Completing a minimum of 4 hours of flight training before the selection board
* Completing a minimum of 10 hours of dual flight training before the selection board
* Passing an aptitude test
| Area of Knowledge | Testing Method |
|---|---|
| Verbal Comprehension | ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test |
| Math Knowledge | ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test |
| Linguistics | US Military Entrance Processing Command |
**Step 4: Participate in the Army Selection Process**
After passing the selection board, you’ll be invited to participate in the army selection process:
* **Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA):** You’ll need to perform to the best of your abilities in the following areas:
• 2-mile run
• Push-ups (male) or sit-ups (female)
• U.S. Army Body Composition Assessment
* **Swimming Test:** You may be required to pass the army’s swimming test (if you’re not enrolled in a college or military academy)
**Step 5: Complete Army Flight School (AOA)**
If selected, you’ll attend **Army Flight School (AOA)**, where you’ll receive comprehensive training for becoming a helicopter pilot.
* **AOA Syllabus:**
¤ Flight training (approx. 2 years)
¤ Ground school (approx. 1 year)
¤ Instrument training (approx. 6 months)
¤ Advanced training (approx. 6 months)
- **Flight Training**: You’ll learn to operate and maintain helicopters, along with flight maneuvers, navigational techniques, and obstacle avoidance.
- **Ground School**: You’ll study fundamentals of aviation, weather knowledge, aircraft systems, radio navigation, and emergency procedures.
- **Instrument Training**: You’ll learn how to fly using instruments solely, such as altimeter, heading indicator, navigation computer, and attitude director indicator.
- **Advanced Training**: You’ll receive specialty training in areas such as aerial reconnaissance, medical evacuations, and combat operations
**What Life is Like as an Army Helicopter Pilot**
* **Deployment**: As a helicopter pilot, you will be deployed to various destinations, including combat zones or humanitarian missions.
* **Flying Schedule**: You may fly up to 25 hours per week, subject to change based on requirements.
* **Team Dynamics**: You’ll work alongside other pilots, crewmembers, and ground personnel.
* **Safety**: Maintenance and safety protocols are priorities to ensure the well-being of all personnel.
- **Benefits**: A competitive salary, comprehensive education benefits, and access to the GI Bill
- **Job Security**: An opportunity to serve your country while developing a valuable professional skillset
- **Adventure**: Experience the unique thrill of flying and visiting diverse locations
**Summary**
Becoming an army helicopter pilot requires persistence, dedication, and education. By following the army’s eligibility requirements, acquiring aviation knowledge, and showcasing your skills, you may be eligible for the world-class training offered at **Army Flight School (AOA)**. As you progress through the selection and training process, you can expect to develop valuable skillset, build lasting relationships with fellow pilots, and achieve a sense of fulfillment, serving your country as an army helicopter pilot. If you’re ready for adventure, take the first step and explore the path of becoming an army helicopter pilot today!
