Do you choose what aircraft you fly in the Air Force?

It is important to note that you will not know which airframe you will be flying on active duty until approximately 8 months into your training. While you will submit your preference of airframe, the Air Force will ultimately decide which aircraft you will fly.

Do fighter pilots fly different planes?

Aircraft. Navy fighter pilots currently fly either the one or two-seat version of the Super Hornet. Air Force fighter pilots are assigned to fly either the F-15C Eagle or the F-22 Raptor. And the Blue Angels fly F/A-18s and the Thunderbirds fly F-16s.

Do pilots get to choose their aircraft?

Yes, a pilot can choose which aircraft, which position, and which crew base they will be assigned if a position is available, and if their Company system wide seniority is high enough to be awarded that position.

How long does it take to be a fighter pilot?

Pilots are required to perform monthly ground and flying duties as required for flying currency and minimum training standards, or as directed by the unit Commander. This entire process will take approximately 3-4 years.

How do pilots get to choose which aircraft to fly?

Pilots get to choose from available slots based on their rankings coming out of thier pilot training class. So if there are openings for 1 F-22 pilot and 2 F-15 pilots, the top ranked pilot in the class gets their choice]

Does the Air Force determine where a pilot is assigned?

Yes and no. Ultimately the needs of the Air Force determine where you are assigned. But a pilot can put in their desires, and based on openings, may get that aircraft. Their initial assignment out of pilot training is based on how they do in training, their class rankings, and what aircraft openings are available.

What personality traits do successful fighter pilots have?

Successful fighter pilots are very confident and aggressive. Now I would say all pilots have some of that, the most confident and aggressive are the likeliest to succeed at fighter craft. They work in teams but fly their craft single handed. They also tend to be short so they can keep their legs if they eject.

Does seniority matter when it comes to being a pilot?

It depends. In the US and at airlines, seniority rules what aircraft, and what base you start at. Usually, there will be bases for pilots, that are then broken down by aircraft (though not all bases will have options for all aircraft types) and then Captain and FO spots for each group.