If you have aspirations of becoming a pilot and want to know how to become a pilot in the air force, first understand that that career objective is one that requires a lot of hard, work, and discipline but the rewards are well worth it.
This article will guide you step by step on how to become a pilot. First you must have a solid educational foundation. Specifically, to become a pilot you need a least a bachelor’s degree and this can either be obtained at the Air Force Academy located outside of Colorado Springs, CO or even through a civilian college or university. Be mindful that when electing your course of study, in order to become a pilot, the Air Force prefers degrees in science related fields (e.g. physics, chemistry, computer science, aerospace engineering, etc.) and in order to become a pilot in the air force you must demonstrate mental prowess through a competitive GPA, 3.5 or higher is preferred. Additionally, if you want to become a pilot, it would be advantageous if you have had prior flight training, even as a civilian, as these candidates tend to fare better in the selection process.
This is also how to become a pilot in the Air Force; you must be a commissioned officer at the rank of at least second lieutenant. This can be achieved three ways: apply to the Air Force Academy, attend Officer Training School, or enroll in a reserve Officer Training Corps program at a college or university and that is the next step on how to become a pilot.
How to become a pilot in the Air Force? Well there are age requirements. You must be at least 18 years old to enlist and you have to enter flight training before your 30th birthday.
The fourth step in how to become a pilot in the Air Force is you must be a citizen of the United States. You do not have to be a citizen to
enlist but you can apply as soon as you have done so and most times those applications can be expedited.
The fifth step on how to become a pilot in the Air Force is a series of tests you have to successfully pass. The first is an aptitude test and you must score at least a 25 on the pilot category in order to be admitted into flight school. The second set of tests are to test you physical ability, psychological well-being, and a criminal background test. These battery of tests are a critical component.
If you have successfully made it to Flight School (located at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio) then you will undergo introductory flight training to make you accustomed to flying and then specialized undergraduate pilot training which consists of classroom training as well as hands-on, simulator training, and flying. All of these steps combined are how to become a pilot in the Air Force.
