Expert: John L - 3/13/2011

Question
Hello sir, I have some questions about becoming a pilot in the army. I am currently an Air Force Reserve medic with 4 years on the AD side. I have always dreamed of being a pilot, and recently I heard that you can apply to be an army pilot without any prior service, so I'm thinking about going into the ARNG to do this. So my question is this; Will my being a medic in the Air Force help or hurt my chances, and what could I do to improve my chances of being selected? Also, If I switch branches, do I actually have to sign up for the ARNG before I can apply for pilot training, and thus be stuck even if I don't get selected? Thanks in advance for your help.

Answer
You can start the process of being a pilot now by taking a flight exam and taking the AFAST test, which is a test to see if you have the basic skills of understanding flight etc.

You cannot join directly to be a pilot, technically, but can be selected prior to joining.  You HAVE to have an Army MOS to be selected, but pilot recruiters already have all that figured out.  You must have a 110 GT on the ASVAB as well.  The Army mos is needed for Warrant officer school, it is required.

Talk to an Army Guard recruiter to see if there is a need in your state for helo pilots, then go from there.

being a medic has no bearing on hurting or helping, but can help you get an Army MOS quicker!!