Originally Posted by
WMUPilot
Anyone have any insight on what it takes to fly for the ASTs? I know they are primarily Float Pistons and bush flying, but does anyone know how long it takes to become a pilot there? Do you have to walk the beat for a few years? Or does an aviation background boost you up a little bit? Thanks!
WMU
I can't help you with Alaskan State Troopers WMU, but I have talked to a few California State Troopers (word of mouth) and I looked in the Oklahoma State Troopers (personal experience) oh so many years ago and both required a number of years on the ground before you could move into the aviation department no matter what your flying experience was. Much like the Marine Corps - you are a trooper first, then move into the air
FWIW, I had a friend who was hired (or in the last stages of being hired) with the DEA and he was going to have to spend some years on the ground first too. Seems to be the law enforcement way of doing things, but it would be fairly easy to call them (or a recruiter) and find out the details. We have some law enforcement pilot types hanging out here at APC. Hopefully someone will jump in with current info.
Good luck.
USMCFLYR