How to Train to Be Fighter Pilot in the USAF

Fighter pilots fly an array of different aircraft types.

A career as a United States Air Force fighter pilot gives you the prestige of being a commissioned officer and the financial security of good pay, a secure career and guaranteed retirement benefits. Becoming a pilot is a multi-stage process that involves you being tested for your aptitude on paper, as well as in the air. Therefore, if you want to become a USAF fighter pilot, you have to have an excellent academic background, as well as solid skills flying a plane.

Instructions

1. Get a commission in the USAF by attending the Air Force Academy or Reserve Officer Training Corps. You can also get commissioned by getting a bachelor's degree and then attending Officer Training School. However, preference for fighter pilot training is given to Air Force Academy graduates, followed by Reserve Officer Training Corps graduates and Officer Training School graduates.

2. Complete the Initial Flight Screening program, which is a prerequisite to enter Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training. During Initial Flight Screening, you'll learn aviation and navigation basics, undergo oral and written tests and perform check rides in an airplane.

3. Complete the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training as one of the top graduates. The five-month program tests your academic ability, as well as your ability to pilot aircraft. Slots for available positions, which includes helicopters and bombers and fighter planes are filled according to class rank. Therefore, if you want to fly a fighter jet, you need to place high in the class to ensure you get the type of plane you want to fly.

4. Complete phase three fighter/bomber training. At the end of the training you'll choose your specific aircraft, again according to rank. Therefore, if you want to fly a specific type of fighter jet, you should aim to finish at the top of your class so you can have first choice of your airplane type. At the end of this training, you'll receive your silver wings.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have a bachelor's degree, the Air Force has an enlisted-to-officer program where there are a certain number of reserved slots for enlisted members at the Air Force Academy.

References

• Baseops: USAF Initial Flight Screening Program
• DTIC: US Air Force Pilot Selection and Training Methods
• Baseops: Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training
• Christian Fighter Pilot: FAQ