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Old 02-22-2024 | 06:34 AM
  #8  
DashAviator
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I'm not a current or former military pilot, but I've spent a long time flying professionally. Here's a couple of other points to consider:

First, do everything you can to try to stay in the program. The Navy gets to decide whether you continue your training or not, but don't make it easy on them by giving up. As a professional pilot in the civilian world, you will spend many weeks of your life training in simulators and airplanes. The simulator (or airplane) doesn't stop flying just because you screwed up. Deal with the problem to the best of your ability, then move on.

In the event that your military flight training just doesn't work out, keep in mind that many military bases have their own low-cost flying clubs. Our local military flying club has eight aircraft and several excellent instructors. Granted, a Cessna 172 may not be as exciting as anything you're likely to fly for the Navy, but it might help you accumulate training and experience for your civilian flying career. Also, many airports (at least in the U.S.) have FBO's and flight schools where you can train part time. In other words, you can continue to serve in the military, and may be able to do some training on the side. If you can "graduate" from the Navy with an honorable dischage and a civilian Commercial certificate, then you'll already be ahead of the game.
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