How Do I Become an Army Helicopter Pilot?
Becoming an army helicopter pilot is a challenging and rewarding career path that requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for flying. If you’re interested in pursuing this career, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become an army helicopter pilot, you must meet the basic requirements set by the United States Army:
- Age: Be between 17 and 35 years old (with some exceptions for older candidates)
- Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen
- Education: Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Physical fitness: Pass a physical fitness test (APFT)
- Height and weight: Meet the Army’s height and weight standards
Step 2: Enlist in the Army
To become an army helicopter pilot, you must first enlist in the Army. You can do this by:
- Applying online: Visit the Army’s website and fill out the online application form
- Visiting a recruiter: Meet with an Army recruiter at your local Army Recruiting Station
- Taking the ASVAB test: Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine your aptitude for various military careers
Step 3: Choose the Right Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
The Army has several Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) related to helicopter pilot training. Some of the most common ones include:
- 15W0: Army Aviation Pilot (Fixed-Wing)
- 15W1: Army Aviation Pilot (Rotor-Wing)
- 15W2: Army Aviation Pilot (Tilt-Rotor)
Step 4: Attend Army Flight School
Once you’ve enlisted and chosen your MOS, you’ll attend Army Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama. Here, you’ll receive basic flight training and learn to fly helicopters.
Step 5: Complete Helicopter Training
After completing basic flight training, you’ll attend helicopter training at Fort Rucker. Here, you’ll learn to fly the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and receive instrument training.
Step 6: Attend Advanced Flight Training
After completing helicopter training, you’ll attend advanced flight training at Fort Rucker. Here, you’ll learn to fly in different weather conditions and receive training in emergency procedures.
Step 7: Complete Flight Training and Receive Wings
After completing advanced flight training, you’ll receive your wings and be qualified to fly the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
Step 8: Serve as an Army Helicopter Pilot
As an army helicopter pilot, you’ll serve as a member of an Army Aviation unit and fly missions to support ground troops. You’ll also be responsible for maintaining the helicopter and ensuring its readiness for flight.
Step 9: Consider Additional Training and Certifications
As an experienced army helicopter pilot, you may have the opportunity to attend additional training and certifications, such as:
- Flight Instructor: Learn to teach other pilots how to fly
- Flight Examiner: Learn to inspect and certify other pilots
- Aircraft Commander: Learn to command a flight of helicopters
- Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Training: Learn to fly in instrument meteorological conditions
Benefits of Being an Army Helicopter Pilot
Becoming an army helicopter pilot offers many benefits, including:
- Job security: As a member of the Army, you’ll have a job for life
- Travel opportunities: As an army helicopter pilot, you’ll have the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world
- Personal satisfaction: There’s no feeling quite like the thrill of flying a helicopter
- Camaraderie: You’ll be part of a close-knit community of fellow pilots and crew members
Challenges of Being an Army Helicopter Pilot
Becoming an army helicopter pilot is not without its challenges, including:
- Physical and mental demands: Flying a helicopter requires a high level of physical and mental fitness
- Long hours: As an army helicopter pilot, you may be required to work long hours and be on call at all times
- Dangers of the job: As a helicopter pilot, you’ll be exposed to risks such as crashes, injuries, and combat
Conclusion
Becoming an army helicopter pilot requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for flying. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve your dream of becoming an army helicopter pilot and serve your country as a member of the Army’s Aviation Corps.
