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AFPC accepting applications for test pilot school

  • Published
  • By Air Force Personnel Center
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The next annual U.S. Air Force test pilot school selection board will convene Oct. 27-30 at the Air Force Personnel Center here. Officers interested in applying should submit their applications to AFPC by Sept. 15

"The U.S. Air Force test pilot school is the world's preeminent fixed-wing test pilot school," said Howard Peterson, AFPC Special Flying Programs personnel technician. "Graduates of TPS are in high demand in an era of increasing technology advancements on the battle field. Graduates also have a profound influence on the designs of future combat capabilities and ensure mission suitability for use in the field."
TPS trains pilots, navigators, and engineers to develop, test and evaluate the newest aircraft and weapons systems. The pilot-selects will fill positions in the fighter, multi-engine, and/or helicopter categories. The navigator-selects will fill positions in the fighter, multi-engine, and/or unmanned aerial vehicle categories. Rotary wing pilots and engineers will conduct testing on the latest rotary wing systems to include CV-22 and special operations assets.

"In addition," Mr. Peterson added, "U.S. Air Force test pilot school conducts exchange programs with the U.S. Navy, United Kingdom, and French test pilot schools to train fixed and rotary wing pilots and flight test engineers."

New graduates of TPS are awarded a Master of Science degree in flight test engineering by Air University, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Applicants from all aircraft types and backgrounds must have strong academic and technical experience and a desire to help develop the next generation of Air Force weapons systems.

For more information, visit the AFPC "Ask" web site; search for "test pilot." You can also get more information through the 24-hour Air Force Contact Center at (800) 616-3775. For additional details on the TPS application process and requirements, visit the TPS Web site www.edwards.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=6467.