The Training of Military Pilots: Men, Machines, and Methods

Abstract

This study analyzes strategic issues in Air Force undergraduate pilot training (SUPT). After describing the key variables that determined pilot training's historical development, the author assesses what type of training system, generalized or specialized, produces the best ratio of cost to effect. The conclusion is that the current specialized system is more responsive to disparate operational needs, better matches training media to task, and generates large cost savings for the Air Force. Next, the writer evaluates recent structural changes to SUPT and analyzes the pilot training systems of the US Navy and Israeli Air Force, Several broad conclusions emerge from these inquiries: the need to stabilize the still-maturing SUPT system; the potential benefits of improved candidate pre-selection methods; and, finally, the pivotal role of the instructor pilot in any training program's success. The final chapter synthesizes the study's findings and implications to suggest an optimal course for future Air Force pilot training.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2002
Accession Number
ADA420558

Entities

People

  • Michael D. Hays

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircraft Industry
  • Airframes
  • Attrition
  • Doctrine
  • Flight Training
  • Human Behavior
  • Instructors
  • Military Aviation
  • Military Personnel
  • Military Pilots
  • Military Science
  • Personnel Management
  • Students
  • Trainees
  • Training Aircraft

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design