How to Become a Pilot in the Philippine Air Force

Have you watched the most recent Top Gun film or any of the fighter aircraft movies more times than you are ready to admit? Do you fantasize about traveling at twice the speed of sound, pulling Gs, and piloting the world’s fastest and most modern aircraft? If you are reading this, it is likely that the appeal of flying as a fighter pilot while also safeguarding the nation drew you here. However, becoming a fighter pilot is not simple; if it were, more people would pursue it. In this article, we’ll teach you how to become one yourself and join the ranks of our elite warriors in the sky.

The Philippine Air Force Flying School

The Philippine Air Force Flying School is situated within the pine-clad Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas. This prestigious institution is tasked with training all future pilots of the Philippine Air Force.

Historically, graduates could directly join the Philippine Air Force Flying School (PAFFS) through the Aviation Cadet Program (ACP) right after college, beginning their Military Pilot Training (MPT) as dodo cadets. However, since the discontinuation of the Aviation Cadet Program, the only pathway to Military Pilot Training now involves becoming an officer in the Philippine Air Force with the rank of second lieutenant or higher. There are two primary routes to achieve this: joining either the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate School (PAFOCS) or the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

PAFFS Requirements

Becoming a pilot in the Air Force is a long and rigorous process. It is no easy task, but if you make it, you will be among the elite warriors of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Here’s what you need to do if you’re going to try to earn your wings:

You must be an officer in the Air Force

If you’re between 17 and 21 years old, you can join the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and become a cadet at the country’s most prestigious military institution. By choosing the Air Force as your branch of service, you’ll graduate and be commissioned as a second lieutenant (2Lt) in the Philippine Air Force. For detailed instructions on how to apply, refer to our guide on the PMA Cadet Application Process.

Alternatively, you can pursue a career in the Philippine Air Force by joining the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate School (PAFOCS). If you’re between 20 and 25 years old and hold a bachelor’s degree, you may qualify to enter PAFOCS. While any 4- or 5-year degree is accepted, the Air Force tends to favor candidates with degrees in scientific fields such as engineering, physics, computer science, and chemistry. Additionally, candidates with civilian flight training, like a private pilot’s license, often have an advantage in the selection process.

For the best chances of qualifying for Military Pilot Training at the PAFFS, the ideal age range is between 22 and 26, with the rank of second lieutenant (2Lt).

Must be recommended by your Commander

Well, this is self-explanatory. It means you must have the approval and recommendation of your unit commander before entering the PAFFS to take the Military Pilot Training.

You must be physically and mentally fit

Entering the PAF Flying School requires another examination, the Military Pilot Aptitude Test (MPAT). It is the qualifying exam prior to flight training. You must pass this exam along with a series of interviews, a battery of physical, psychological, and background tests, and medical examinations. You must be at least 5’4″ but no more than 6 feet 5 inches tall and not overweight. Your seated height must be between 34 and 40 inches. Make sure to have 20/20 vision and not be colorblind. If you have problems with depth perception or have had laser eye surgery, you will be disqualified. Other disqualifications include a history of hay fever, asthma, or allergies after the age of 12.

After passing the medical exam, interview, and aptitude test, you will be selected to be one of the Student Officers and the chances of joining will depend on your standing after the series of examinations and interviews has been finished.

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot in the Philippine Air Force is a very rewarding career. Once you get your wings, you can fly choppers, fixed-wing aircraft, turboprops, or jets. After your service in the military, you can join the civilian aviation industry as a commercial pilot. The Air Force is your cheap but longer route to your future aviation career.  Take the challenge and soar high!

Credits to Pinoy Aviator