Hello,

I havnt been on this forum for almost a year. Back then I was interested in becoming a pilot.

Now im a 23 year old student pilot almost achieving my PPL from a 141 school and I'm going career.

I do not like seeing myself instructing in the future and doing odd jobs to get to the regionals and then majors/corporate community. I'm highly considering transitioning to the military to become a pilot ( not fighter ) after getting my PPL , instrument, and commercial. I'm also earning my BS degree in aeronautical sciences soon from embry riddle worldwide.

Ive been hearing a lot of military pilots on this forum talking to students about going the military route as if its a super easy option.

MY QUESTION IS:

Isnt the military route one of the hardest options to take as an aspiring pilot?

It seems like ANG has 0 pilot slots open, Air Force seems to act like you need to be the president of the united states to get a slot... etc etc

Im a 3.0 student that will soon have a bs degree with aviation experience along with a perfect physical and class 1 medical cert.

Is that not enough for qualifications?

It seems like if your not affiliated with the military in anyway, you most likely wont get the interview or slot.

Any info or advice?

 

It isn't easy but very attainable. The hard work is worth all the blood, sweat and tears! Just make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. Not saying you are, but joining simply to advance your civilian career is not a great reason to jump into the military. It's a decent side effect but you have to want to serve. We have tons of additional duties, almost to the point that flying is our second job...at least in a fighter squadron. My tanker bros fly their tails off and make a good living at guard bumming. It's much harder to guard bum in fighters.

Then you are not looking hard enough. Most squadrons hire at least 1 stud to go to pilot training a year. I have seen tanker units up to hire 4 per year. Find a unit you would like to fly with and give them a call...ask to the head of the hiring board or a pilot in general...they will get you in touch with the right person.

GPA is better than mine. FAA Class I medical doesn't really mean much. If selected they will send you to get a Air Force Flying Class I (FCI), that's what counts.

I know numerous people who had no affiliation with the military and were hired (first try) at a fighter unit.

Take the AFOQT and TBAS, if you haven't already. Find a unit you would like to apply at and go visit. I can't say enough about actually showing up to the squadron to show interest. If you send in a packet and never come visit...you had better have a great packet or it's going in the trash.

Goodluck!

 

Have you looked into active duty? Any way you choose to go you need to look into the tests required. If you are looking at the Air Force like mentioned above you really need to take the AFOQT and TBAS. You may also want to get in contact with your local Officer Requiter. They can help answer some questions but don't bank on everything that they say. Research as much as you can. I can send you some web sites that will help on your journey if you would like. Best of luck!