How to Become a Pilot in the Military: A Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a pilot in the military is a challenging and highly rewarding career path. Flying is an essential part of military operations, and having skilled and dedicated pilots can make all the difference between success and failure. As a military pilot, you’ll have the opportunity to fly advanced aircraft, undertake daring missions, and earn recognition and respect from fellow servicemen and women. However, becoming a military pilot requires dedication, hard work, and a clear path forward. In this article, we’ll outline the key steps to help you embark on this exciting career path.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before considering a career as a military pilot, you must meet basic eligibility requirements. These usually include:
- Being between the ages of 16 and 35 (40 for the Navy and National Guard)
- Being a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Taking and passing the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Test (ASVAB) with a minimum score
Step 2: Attend a Military Academy
The next step is to attend a military academy to receive a commission as a second lieutenant. There are three main military academies in the United States: the United States Military Academy (West Point), the United States Naval Academy, and the United States Air Force Academy. These academies provide a four-year officer training program that includes physical training, academic coursework, and leadership development.
* Academic Requirements:
- Completed 60 semester hours in approved courses
- Attained a minimum GPA of 2.5/4.0
- Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Fundamentals of Navigation and Tactics (FNTT) exams
Step 3: Complete Your Pilot Training
After gaining your commission, you’ll attend pilot training school for the military branch you applied to. The training syllabus typically includes:
**Pilot Training Syllabus Breakdown:
**
| **Phase of Training** | **Location** | **Duration (weeks)** | **Purpose** |
| — | — | — | — |
| **Primary Pilot Training** | Flight Line Training | 24 weeks | Learn basic flying skills |
| **Advanced Multi-Engine Training** | Flight Line Training | 10 weeks | Learn procedures for multi-engine aircraft operation |
| **Instrument Navigation Training** | Flight Training School | 10 weeks | Learn instrument flying navigation techniques |
| **Intermediate Pilot Training** | Joint Primary Pilot Training | 10 weeks | Learn fundamental flight skills and procedures in multi-engine aircraft |
| **Advanced Pilot Training** | Advanced Pilot Training Academy | 10 weeks | Learn advanced flying skills in specific aircraft |
**Step 4: Gain Service Time and Experience**
Following pilot training, you’ll be assigned to a permanent squadron or unit. From there, you’ll gain critical experience and service time necessary for advancement and specialization within your branch.
**Service Time and Experience Requirements:**
