UPT so far

Zack here,

I thought I'd fill you in on how I've been doing.

Shooting off some signal flares

Pilot school is going really well so far. I've completed one week of academics. So far, we've spent most of our time studying aerospace physiology. Last week we did some parachute training in the unlikely event of an ejection-- since both the T-6s and the T-38s  have ejection seats. This week we went over some physiological challenges of flying--spacial disorientation, G-LOC (G induced loss of consciousness), and oxygen demands (the T-6 cabin is only partially pressurized, so oxygen masks are required). In addition to Physio, we've also started studying systems-- so far far I've learned about how the turbine works in the T-6, as well as all the warnings and alerts that are associated with system malfunctions. Fun stuff. So far we've had two tests, and I only missed one question on either of them. Tomorrow is test number three, and I've spent nearly ten hours studying for it.

More signal devices

Overall though, the pace is pretty chill and low stress. Academics is nicknamed "slackademics" because it's relatively easy compared to the flying phases of training. Our class is a group of really cool guys (and two girls). A few of us are married, a couple of us have kids, and several are prior enlisted or have been officers in other career fields. Each Sunday we have a few guys over for breakfast followed by church at the on base chapel. It's fun to be part of a group of people so passionate about flying and motivated to do well. It's also exciting to finally be studying what I'm interested in. I'm not saying that engineering wasn't interesting at all, but jet engines are way cooler than waste water treatment plants, and my flight helmet and mask is 1000 times sexier than a hard hat.

T-6 Texan II

Looking forward, in early July I'll start flying the T-6 Texan II. It's a single engine turboprop trainer. It flies at speeds up to 316 kts and will pull 7 Gs without breaking a sweat. We'll do everything from low level flight, to aerobatics (spins, loops, rolls etc), to formation flight. We'll also do a cross-country flight (a lot of classes will fly to Las Vegas and back). The T-6 portion is called Phase 2. At the end of Phase 2, we'll all "track select" and either fly the T-38 (fighters and bombers) or the T-1 (aka the T-Fun; used to train for heavies). That portion is Phase 3. Once Phase 3 is complete, we'll all be selected for specific airframes. After that, it all depends of what I've been selected for. If I get fighters like I hope, I'll go to Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals (IFF) and survival school. It will likely be a full two years from now or more until I'm done with training.

So I have a very long ways to go. The good thing is that I'm on my way. I'm enjoying the ride, and I plan the make the most of every bit of it.

Hopefully I won't drive Rach crazy in the meantime =)

Stay tuned,

Zachariah.