AF Cargo Pilot?

[Bsanders85]

I have been interested in aviation ever since I can remember, right now I work at Paine Field in Everett,WA driving fuel trucks for an FBO, Paine is where they build the Boeing heavys (747,777,soon787), everytime I see one of those brand new planes take off I get goose bumps, it is so cool to see (Especially when an Antonov 225 delivers parts to Boeing).

I really want to fly, but the problem is I dont have the money to pay for my 4 year degree and flight training, my answer? The Air Force, I think. If I get my degree in something that doesnt have to do with aviation, does it matter? I know that I have to pass the AFOQT, PT requirements and then go to OTS after I finish my degree, but really how difficult is it to be selected for a pilot position?? I wanted to get some opinions on here instead of talking to a recruiter.

 

[WizardPilot]

It does not matter what your degree is. It is better not to have a Aviation degree in my opinion, just for something to fall back on if you may. It is fairly selective for a pilot slot. You will not find out if you fly until you graduate OTS. They cannot, and do not give you a gimme slot. The marines do on the other hand. Keep a good GPA, above 3.5 is what I hear, and see if you can't bum a few hours from some guys around where you work. Hours does help a little in getting an OTS slot. If your GPA is good, PT is good, AFOQT is good, you might have a good chance. But again it is very competive from what I hear. But good luck to you.

Have you looked into AFROTC?

 

[mgg20]

Wizard, your info is a little incorrect. The Air Force does guarantee your position prior to OTS, as each rated position is applied to individually. In fact, while OTS is more competitive than ROTC, it does make certain what you are going to do before you sign on the dotted line. ROTC makes you "contract" before you have any idea what you are going to do.

From what I remeber, all branches guarantee a flight position prior to OTS. Just remember though, The Army is 95% helicopter, and USN & USMC have a ton of rotor as well. If fixed wing is you thing, then the AF is the way to go imho. The OTS process takes forever though, I started my package in Sep '03, and just got my class letter for this August, so be prepared to hurry up and wait. Good Luck Bsanders

 

[Korgs130]

Bsanders85,

Also think about the Air Guard and Reserves. I spent 9 1/2 years on active duty after the AF Academy. Currently in the ANG. The active duty is a great option, but the guard offers some good opportunites too. For example, if you were to enlist in the Illinois ANG, let's say as a crew chief, you would get 4 years of tuition at a state plus all flight fees at that school paid for. Southern Illinois State has a great aviation program. So you could get your degree and your ratings on the state dime, then apply for a pilot slot. I know not all states pay for your flight fees but most to pay for your school. If you want more info PM me. Good luck.

Korgs

 

[WizardPilot]

Wizard, your info is a little incorrect. The Air Force does guarantee your position prior to OTS, as each rated position is applied to individually. In fact, while OTS is more competitive than ROTC, it does make certain what you are going to do before you sign on the dotted line. ROTC makes you "contract" before you have any idea what you are going to do.

From what I remeber, all branches guarantee a flight position prior to OTS. Just remember though, The Army is 95% helicopter, and USN & USMC have a ton of rotor as well. If fixed wing is you thing, then the AF is the way to go imho. The OTS process takes forever though, I started my package in Sep '03, and just got my class letter for this August, so be prepared to hurry up and wait. Good Luck Bsanders

Oh, thats interesting. All I have heard is that they wont select you till a few weeks into OTS. Guess not! Sorry about that false info! Thanks for the correction.

 

[pkober]

Korgs130,

Don't forget about flying with some of the best people in the world at the ILANG.

CLAMBAKE

 

[Huggyu2]

Curious... what percentage of a Navy pilot training class will get fixed wing versus rotary wing assignments?

 

[Ragansundowner]

15% with a standard deviation of 9%.

 

[MooseBoy]

Bsanders,
I'll piggy back on mgg20. I'm an OTS guy, and if you get the call, you will be assured a pilot slot. Second, I know a guy that was a CFI at Paine who is now flying C-17's at Mcchord in the reserves. Let me know if you want his name, and I can hook you up.

 

[Mamma]

BSANDERS85,

OTS is a tough road as to getting a pilot slot in the AF...especially if you do not have any flying hours. What you can do is get your 2 year degree done at a community college or small college that won't put you back to far. Then, join AFROTC for the last 2 years and apply for pilot training. Your odds are much better. It is not a gimmie, but in my opinion, it is the best way to go. Enlisting in the AF Reserve is also a great help. You can get tuition assistance, enroll on base in a degree program from Embry Riddle or a host of other colleges who understand the demands of military service and press on. If you are really interested, contact the AFROTC Det at UW or WSU and get their take on it all. They should be up front with you on the matter.