Assessments for military pilots.

Question

I have always had a dream of being an Air Force Pilot, and have found different ways to test my abilities in hand-to-eye coordination among other things, and think I am doing reasonably well. I do how ever have two questions.

Is there a way to improve you hand-to-eye test scores?

Regarding the health requirements, do they have any special requirements for your shoulders and back?

Answer

It is great to hear you would like a career in the Air Force. It is a job with massive challenges, experiences and dynamics. It is an environment in constant movement and development, and if you thrive, it is a fantastic place to work! Regarding your questions.

With good reason, the tests are secret, but it is basically your ability to work with your hands while using your mind at the same time for something entirely different, it’s called shared tasking in general terms. An example could be you would be asked to control a small aircraft on a computer, maintaining airspeed, altitude and heading, while responding to sounds you must either ignore or react to. In the end the instructor might ask you some questions that have nothing to do with the task on the screen. Another word for this kind of ability is simultaneous capacity, and the general opinion between experts is that your either have that ability or you don’t, and of course some degree of how good you are. With that said, preparation never hurts, and hard work is rarely a loss!

Regarding your question for your back, it is difficult to answer in general. If you have had injuries or problems, you will have to see a doctor who specialize in aviation medicine. Regardless of the answer you might get, the Air Force will check everything. If you wish to specify your question, please don’t hesitate to write again.

Best regards,

Ask a Pilot, THO – Check six!

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