How often do Air Force Jet Pilots get to go home and see their family ?

Hello Simon,

The answer is "everyday" unless you are in a combat zone for a controlled tour.

Where did you get the idea that you won't see your family?

Also, where did you get the information that you have to commit for 11 years in the Air Force if you take an AF ROTC scholarship? Who is telling you this and what is the reference?

Remember, not everyone can pass the flight physical to become a pilot. Not everyone even gets selected to become a pilot. Not everyone who does get selected to become a pilot complete flight school. Many wash out due to academics or inability to perform flying tasks. Many are assigned to fly bomber aircraft. Many fly helicopters. Many fly cargo/transport planes. Many fly general purpose planes. Some become navigators. And, some actually do become jet pilots.

The "key" is being able to "FLY." Period.

If you want to fly then NOW is the time to begin studying HOW TO FLY by getting books on the subject and reading them instead of playing video games, basketball, football, soccer, and baseball. Use the time you would spend on "sports" to read about the dynamics of flight. Go to Netflix and order every DVD you can on Flying.

Watch the Military channel on Cable. Watch the History Channel's programs about war.

Study physics of what makes a plane stay in the air and fly. Study the flight of birds. Study.

Don't waste time on watching reality shows and stupid sit-coms which won't teach you anything.

You must enroll in a 4 year college that offers Air Force ROTC. Forget about Ivy League colleges that won't let the military on campus. They won't help you.

Get a book called Miller's Analogies. Get a book called Practice for the AFOQT (Armed Forces Officer Qualifying Test). Get both the ACT and SAT workbooks. Work them cover to cover.

Make sure you are physically fit. Don't get fat. Fat people don't get to fly.

Best wishes,

Larry Smith

Senior Master Sergeant, USAF (Ret.)

First Sergeant

Every night most of the time.