Drone pilot question

[bgaviator]

Hello,
I'm 28 years old and currently out of work. I have all of my pilots licenses up through commercial multi-instrument, as well as a CFI and Dispatch license. I have wondered about a career in the AirForce as a drone pilot....I know there is an age cutoff for being selected as a pilot candidate, but I was wondering if it was not as strict for being a drone pilot? Is there chances to transition into regular aircraft as well? I will admit that I'm too overweight to qualify right now...still need to drop about 70 lbs, but if I could do it, is there a chance for me?

 

[TXDanno]

Currently, there is no separate program for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) pilots in the Air Force. The AF selects UAV pilots from its total pilot force. Possibly soon, the Air Force will assign UAVs to pilots upon initial pilot training, instead of taking pilots who have been flying other aircraft already.

If you want to serve as an Air Force pilot, drone or otherwise, you need to get commissioned and get a flight school slot. Bachelor's degree required for commission. You must be no older than 30 1/2 yrs upon starting pilot training. You must meet height and weight standards, so if you need to lose 70 pounds, start yesterday.

You would need to speak to an Officer Accessions Recruiter, not a regular recruiter, who would try to sell you on joining enlisted and working your way up. Due to your age, that won't work. If you are going to meet with an Officer Accessions Recruiter, and still need to lose 70 pounds, you won't get far. Start your program and show progress.

Good luck.

 

[Pistlpetet]

Soon the AF is going to have to change their attitude about letting enlisted people fly UAVs.

Join the Army, they will gladly let you fly a UAV, and they will even let you work out for free to lose that weight.

 

[Pistlpetet]

UAV PILOT I
Category: Pilots
Type: Reg Full Time
Description: 611-5921

Under close supervision, this position is responsible for coordinating ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution and briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and ground and flight safety. Serves as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicle(s) (UAV).

§ Coordinates and actively participates in ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and safety.

§ Ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

§ Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

Requirements: Typically requires education/formal training equivalent to the completion of a four-year technical degree or trade school equivalency. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAV or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education. Must demonstrate a basic understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories and concepts.

Must posses: (1) FAA Commercial Certificate with a current instrument rating and ability to maintain instrument currency; (2) three hundred (300) hours as PIC; (3) ability to obtain DOD secret clearance as well as customer specific clearance(s); (4) ability to travel on CONUS and ONCONUS; (5) good analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees and military and civilian customers, contractors and aircrew; and (6) basic knowledge of computer operations and applications. The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours and travel as required.

Location Palmdale , CA
Minimum Experience (yrs):
Required Education: Bachelor
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[JungleJett]

Soon the AF is going to have to change their attitude about letting enlisted people fly UAVs.

Join the Army, they will gladly let you fly a UAV, and they will even let you work out for free to lose that weight.

I agree....I am not sure why (but it does not surprise me) the USAF would spend a ton of money to train up some "0" just so he can stick them in a box somewhere. Build a course that teaches some flying basics (emphasis on instruments) and then check that person out in the UAV. I think one reason they have a "0" in the loop is for armed missions. The "E's" cannot be trusted to shoot stuff on their own.

Treat the UAV's as a separate career field. Saves money. I am guess some silver wing fella's....

Do UAV pilots get flight pay..and why in the hell are they wearing flight suits? Tell me they do not earn medals usually awarded to those in "real" airplanes.