Home » Blog » How to be a pilot in the army?

How to be a pilot in the army?

How to be a pilot in the army?

Becoming a military pilot is an exciting and challenging career path that offers a unique combination of flight training, military service, and adventure. If you’re interested in pursuing this career, here’s what you need to know about how to become a pilot in the army.

Meet the Requirements

Bulk Ammo for Sale at Lucky Gunner

The first step to becoming an army pilot is to meet the basic requirements set by the military. These typically include:

  • Being between the ages of 18 and 35
  • Holding a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Completing a physical examination by a military doctor
  • Passing a background check

Note: These requirements may vary depending on your country’s military.

Education and Training

Next, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in a field such as aviation, aerospace, computer science, or mathematics from an accredited university. Courses in subjects like physics, mathematics, and computer-aided design (CAD) are also helpful. A strong understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft mechanics, and weather conditions is essential for success.

Flight Training

In addition to your academic preparation, you’ll need to complete flight training through one of the following:

  1. United States military academies: These programs offer a combination of officer training and flight instruction through the military’s Academy Liaison Office (ALO).
  2. Cadet programs: Programs at civilian colleges and universities are designed to prepare students for military flight training through scholarship and commissioning programs, such as the Air National Guard’s Cadet Mentorship Program.
  3. Flight schools: Top-rated flight schools like Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology or Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation offer flight training scholarships and commissioning programs that can lead to a job as a military pilot.
  4. Hobbies and personal flying: Having hands-on experience with flight may also be beneficial. Learning to fly a single-engine aircraft or a simulator may help you develop essential pilot skills.

Selection and Commissioning

After you’ve completed your education, training, and flight experiences, you’ll need to apply to the military program of your choice. Go through the following process to become a commissioned officer as a pilot:

  1. Application: Fill out the application for your country’s military pilot program and submit it with all the required documents.
  2. Assessment and Aptitude Test: Complete physical and mental aptitude assessments, including the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test.
  3. Interview: Meet with a military officer or training officer to discuss your credentials, motivation, and aviation experience.
  4. Commissioning: Upon accepting your commission, you’ll be sworn in as a military officer and receive official pilot training.

Warrant Officer and Commission Officer

There are two general paths to becoming a pilot in the army:

Warrant Officer: Warrant officers are senior non-commissioned officers who have received a specialization in a specific field like aviation. To become a warrant officer, you’ll typically need to have significant practical experience in the field before applying for the position through the warrant officer program. Warrant officers also require a bachelor’s degree.
Commission Officer: Commissioned officers are officers who have not only received a degree from a military academy but are also commissioned through a standard commissioning process. Commissioned officers must maintain a high level of officer training and performance standards .

Job Descriptions and Responsibilities

Army pilots are responsible for operating fighter jets, helicopters, training aircraft, and other forms of military aircraft. Typical job descriptions and responsibilities of army pilots include:

Types of Airplanes

Army pilots fly a wide range of aircraft, depending on their specific job functions and the branch of service. Some examples include:

  • Fighter aircraft: F-15Es, F-16 Fighting Falcons, and F-22 Raptors
  • Attack helicopters: AH-64 Apache, AH-1Z Viper
  • Transport aircraft: C-130J, C-17 Globemaster III
  • Training aircraft: T-38 Talon, UH-72A

Conclusion

Becoming an army pilot is a challenging and rewarding experience that requires dedication, academic preparation, and practical aviation experience. By following this guide, you can work towards a successful career in the military as a licensed pilot.

Enhance Your Knowledge with Curated Videos on Guns and Accessories


Leave a Comment