Expert: David A. NewMyer - 6/11/2007

Question
Hi, I am seriously considering joining the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. (AFROTC) at Texas Tech University in the pursuit of a career as a helicopter pilot.  However, I'm not sure what college major would prepare me best for this type of career.
Also, I don't have 20/20 vision, but contact lenses correct my vision to 20/20.  Is this enough?  Should I consider lasik eye surgery?  Thanks.

Answer
Hi,

You need to talk to the ROTC commander or his recruiting officer about eyesight requirements for the USAF.  As I understand it, you can not have correctable vision for pilot jobs in the USAF....but, ask them.  Also, ask about lasik eye surgery and whether they allow it or not.

As for the best major, again, ask the ROTC advisors for their recommendations, but, normally, they really love engineering majors and aviation majors (I am not sure that Texas Tech has aviation, but, I am sure that you have engineering!).

Best wishes to you,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale

PS  As far as becoming a helicopter pilot, check out the Warrant Officer flight program in the US Army for options...they might not have the eyesight requirements of the USAF.