As a Royal Air Force Pilot you will fly fast-jets, transport aircraft or helicopters.
Typical Responsibilities
- Fast-jet pilots conduct air-to-air combat or ground attack missions
- Multi-engine transport pilots fly military support and deliver humanitarian aid
- Helicopter duties range from ferrying troops into combat to delivering equipment and supplies
The roles of our pilots are as varied as the aircraft. You will be streamed to fast-jet, multi-engine or rotary-wing (helicopter) aircraft according to operational requirements and your flying ability. You will then usually specialize in that aircraft type throughout your career. As the pilot of a multi-role Fast Jet aircraft, your primary role would be air-to-air combat and ground attack. In Air Mobility (transport aircraft) you would be sent anywhere in the world on military support, humanitarian aid or air-to-air refuelling missions. In Rotary Wing your duties would include delivering troops and vital equipment within combat zones. In aircraft supporting Intelligence, Surveillance Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance tasks, you would contribute to the UK understanding of activities taking place in our increasingly complex, congested and contested world.
Training And Career
You’ll begin your RAF career with a 24-week Initial Officer Training (IOT) at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire designed to develop your leadership and management skills.
SPECIALIST TRAINING
Your specialist training begins with Elementary Flying Training, flying the Tutor or Prefect aircraft. You will then be streamed to fast jet; multi-engine or rotary (helicopter) flying training.
Applicants Must:
- Be aged 17.5 – 25 years old (Must attest before 26th birthday)
- Have GCSEs at Grade C/4 or SNE at Grade 5 or SCE Standard Grades at Grade 2/SNE 5 in English and Maths and at least three other
- subjects. Have at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points
- Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/ other nationality
- Commit to minimum 12 years service
- Meet the health and fitness criteria
- Pass a General Fitness Test