Military Career: Airplane Pilots
Overview
The military operates one of the largest fleets of specialized airplanes in the world. Supersonic fighters and bombers fly combat missions. Large transports carry troops and equipment. Intelligence gathering airplanes take photographs from high altitudes. Military airplane pilots fly the thousands of jet and propeller airplanes operated by the services.
What They Do
Airplane pilots in the military perform some or all of the following duties:
- Check weather reports to learn about flying conditions
- Develop flight plans showing air routes and schedules
- Contact air traffic controllers to obtain take-off and landing instructions
- Fly airplanes by controlling engines, rudders, elevators, and other controls
- Monitor gauges and dials located on cockpit control panels
- Perform combat maneuvers, take photographs, transport equipment, and patrol areas to carry out flight missions
Branches of the Military
Army
Navy
Air Force
Marine Corps
Coast Guard
Helpful Attributes
Helpful fields of study include physics and aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Helpful attributes include:
- Determination to complete a very demanding training program
- Self-confidence and ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- Strong desire to fly airplanes
Training Provided
Pilot training is a 2-year program covering 1 year each in initial and advanced training. Initial training includes time spent in flight simulators, classroom training, officer training, and basic flight training. This is among the most challenging training given by the services; not everyone who attempts this training can meet the strict requirements for completion. Advanced training begins when pilots successfully complete initial training and are awarded their "wings." Advanced training consists of instruction in flying a particular type of aircraft. Course content typically includes:
- Aircraft aerodynamics
- Jet and propeller engine operation
- Operation of aircraft navigation systems
- Foul weather flying
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations
Physical Demands
Airplane pilots must pass the most demanding physical test of any job in the military. To be accepted for pilot training, applicants must have 20/20 vision and be in top physical condition. They must have very good eye-hand coordination and have extremely quick reaction times to maneuver at high speeds.
Work Environment
Airplane pilots may be stationed at airbases or aboard aircraft carriers anywhere in the world. They fly in all types of weather conditions. Military pilots take off and land on airport runways and aircraft carrier landing decks.
Special Requirements
A 4-year college degree is normally required to enter this occupation. Although the military has many women pilots, some specialties involving duty in combat airplanes are open only to men.
Civilian Counterparts
Civilian airplane pilots who work for passenger airlines and air cargo businesses are called commercial pilots. Other civilian pilots work as flight instructors at local airports, as crop dusters, or as pilots transporting business executives in company planes. Many commercial pilots began their career in the military.
Below is a list of similar civilian occupations:
Opportunities
Civilian airplane pilots who work for passenger airlines and air cargo businesses are called commercial pilots. Other civilian pilots work as flight instructors at local airports, as crop dusters, or as pilots transporting business executives in company planes. Many commercial pilots began their career in the military.
Source: U.S.
Department of Defense, Washington D.C.
