How do you become a military pilot?

Becoming a military pilot involves several steps and requires meeting specific qualifications. Here's a general guide on how to become a military pilot, focusing on the U.S. Air Force as an example:

Steps to Become a Military Pilot

1. Join the Military

• Enlistment: Contact a recruiter from your preferred branch (e.g., Air Force, Navy, Army) to join the service. You can join as active duty, reserves, or guard15.

2. Earn a Bachelor's Degree

• A four-year degree is typically required. Majors in aviation, aerospace engineering, or related fields are beneficial but not mandatory14.
• You can earn your degree through:
  • Military Academies: Attend institutions like the U.S. Air Force Academy or U.S. Naval Academy, where you graduate as an officer5.
  • ROTC Programs: Participate in Reserve Officer Training Corps programs at civilian universities24.
  • Officer Training School (OTS): Attend OTS after completing your degree23.

3. Meet Officer Qualifications

• You must become an officer to be eligible for pilot training. This involves passing the Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) and meeting age requirements (typically between 18 and 28 for OTS)13.

4. Attend Officer Training School

• Complete OTS, which includes physical fitness tests and tactical training. For the Air Force, OTS is located at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama13.

5. Pass Initial Flight Training

• After becoming an officer, you'll enter Initial Flight Training (IFT), which assesses your ability to learn aviation skills1.
• Obtain a student pilot certification and pass a flight physical1.

6. Complete Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT)

• UPT teaches navigation, formation flying, and instrument use. It typically lasts about a year23.
• Upon completion, you'll be assigned to a specific aircraft track (e.g., airlift/tanker or bomber/fighter)2.

7. Advanced Flight Training (AFT)

• Once assigned to an aircraft, you'll undergo specialized training to master its operations23.

8. Service Commitment

• Pilots typically commit to a minimum of 10 years of active-duty service after completing training13.

Requirements and Skills

• Physical and Medical Requirements: Meet specific height, vision, and health standards13.
• Academic and Test Requirements: Pass the AFOQT and maintain a strong academic record13.
• Skills: Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills1.

Becoming a military pilot is highly competitive and requires dedication, hard work, and meeting strict qualifications.