Notes on Becoming a Pilot in the Air Force

Introduction

• The episode focuses on becoming a pilot in the Air Force, a significant but small part of the Air Force (4% of the force).
• Discussion includes rated officer career fields and how to apply for them.

Rated Officers vs. Non-Rated Officers

• Rated Officers: Line officers authorized to conduct combat operations.
  • Career fields:
    1. Pilot
    2. Combat Systems Officer (CSO)
    3. Air Battle Manager (ABM)
    4. Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Pilot
• Non-Rated Officers: Do not conduct combat operations.

Roles of Rated Officers

• Pilot: Operate manned aircraft.
• CSO: Support pilots with mission execution.
• RPA Pilot: Operate unmanned aircraft remotely.
• ABM: Command and control role, directing air operations.

Path to Becoming a Rated Officer

• US Air Force Academy (USAFA): Apply at the end of the second year.
• Air Force ROTC: Apply at the end of the third year.
  • Volunteering for one career field implies volunteering for all.
• Officer Training School (OTS): Application through a recruiter, with flexibility to choose specific career fields.

Application Components

• Test of Basic Aviation Skills (TBAS): Assesses ability to control aircraft.
• Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT): Measures aptitude for various skills including pilot and navigation.
• Pilot Candidate Selection Method (PCSM): Combines TBAS and AFOQT scores with flight hours to rank candidates.

Selection Criteria

• Emphasis on the "whole airman concept": personal character, competence, and ethical standards.
• Active duty selection focuses on scores and character.
• Guard and Reserve selections are more personal and comprehensive.

Medical Qualifications

• Medical criteria are critical but detailed information is not covered in the episode.

Conclusion

• The process is rigorous and competitive.
• Engagement with the Air Force officer community recommended for further guidance.
• Feedback and interaction encouraged through various platforms.

Note: For medical qualification details, refer to additional resources as the hosts are not medical professionals.