The True Story Behind Air Force and Naval Pilots and Their Aircraft

Do Air Force and Naval pilots always fly the same jet, or do they take off in whatever is ready to roll?

Both branches of the military have specific aircraft assigned to them, tailored to their missions, training, and operational requirements. Air Force pilots primarily fly fixed-wing aircraft, such as the F-22, F-35, and various transport and cargo planes like the C-130 and C-17. Naval pilots, meanwhile, usually fly carrier-based aircraft such as the F/A-18 Super Hornet and the E-2 Hawkeye, which are essential for operations on aircraft carriers.

Aircraft Assignment and Seniority

The question of who gets to fly which aircraft is not always straightforward. In both branches, pilots are assigned to specific aircraft based on their training and the needs of their unit. Typically, senior pilots have the first choice when flight schedules are published. This is usually in their best interest, as more experienced pilots are often assigned to the newer, more sophisticated aircraft to enhance their skills and experience.

One time, while I was serving in the Navy, I witnessed a situation firsthand. At Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, in 1969, VF-124 operated both F-8H and F-8J Crusaders. The newer J models were more sophisticated, but this came at a cost; they were also heavier and required a more powerful engine. The J57-P-420 engine was developed primarily for the J models, but an H model could sometimes receive a new engine if it was due for a change.

During one of the training sessions, an O-2 LtJG (Air Fighter) had already been strapped into an F-8H model and had started the engine. Suddenly, an O-5 LtCdr (Lieutenant Commander) arrived and personally saw the LtJG make him climb out and switch aircraft assignments. This was the only time, in my eight years in the Navy, that I saw or even heard of such a thing. It seems that the LtCdr was more senior and had a higher priority for the newer aircraft, which were essential for enhancing his skills and readiness.

Training and Proficiency

Not all pilots operate the same aircraft exclusively. Naval pilots, especially those involved in carrier-based operations, may have some flexibility to fly different aircraft within their training or during exercises. However, they typically have a primary aircraft they are qualified to operate. Similarly, in the Air Force, pilots can be assigned to different types of aircraft, but they generally stick with the same type throughout their careers unless they undergo re-training for a different model.

In both branches, pilots train extensively on specific aircraft. They are not just assigned to any available jet but are assigned to aircraft they are qualified for. This ensures that they are proficient and safe in their operations.

A Personal Anecdote

I once owned a small boat used as a tender for my larger boat. Everyone borrowed it when I was away, but they made a mess of it and damaged it. I had to repaint it often. Once, I had an idea. When I met the four people who used it, I told them that if they wanted to use it, they had to clean it and maintain it. This ensured that the boat remained in good condition and everyone was responsible for their actions.

The principle of accountability and responsibility extends to the military as well. Pilots are responsible for the aircraft they fly, and their performance is closely monitored. The primary goal is to ensure that each aircraft is in the best possible condition to carry out its mission.

In conclusion, Air Force and Naval pilots do not always fly the same jet. Instead, they operate the aircraft they are qualified for, ensuring proficiency and safety in their operations. While there is some flexibility, especially during training and exercises, the general rule is that pilots are assigned to specific aircraft based on their training and the needs of their unit.