Air Force Fighter Pilot Qualifications

Perhaps the most exciting and glamorous of military positions is that of a fighter pilot. Ever since World War I, the U.S. Air Force has maintained strict standards for fighter pilots in terms of physical and mental fitness and importantly, visual acuity. The qualifications for becoming an Air Force pilot include a reasonable height/weight ratio, a baccalaureate degree, and passing an aptitude test.

Height/Weight

To enter pilot training, you must be have a standing height between 64 to 77 inches and sitting height between 34 to 40 inches. Your weight must fall below the maximum listed weight for your height on the Air Force Height/Weight Chart. (See Resources).

Vision

Potential pilots must not have any color blindness. Eye refraction level must be no worse than plus or minus 8.0. Distant vision acuity must be no worse than 20/70. Near vision acuity must be 20/20. There must be no history of allergies that affect vision like hay fever.

Age

You must have a college degree to apply to be a pilot so most are not eligible before the age of 21 or 22. For basic Air Force training, the minimum age is 17 and the maximum is 28.

Aptitude Test

A 36 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is the minimum score to qualify for enlistment in the Air Force.

Education

Pilots (Combat System Officers) have to apply within a year of receiving their baccalaureate degree in any major. The minimum GPA considered is 2.5.

Citizenship

Enlistment is limited to U.S. citizens and foreign nationals legally residing in the U.S. If a foreign national, you must have an Immigrations and Naturalization Service Alien Registration or "green card."

Prior Flight Experience

Having flight experience is considered a big plus when applying to be a pilot.

Resources

• Airforce Recruitment Page
• Height Weight Chart