The F22 Raptor is the premier air superiority fighter in the world today. Raptors are a major component of the U.S. Air Force, and only the best and brightest applicants go on to become F22 pilots after years of training.
Step 1
Apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy, located at Colorado Springs, Colorado. The four-year undergraduate program in mathematics, aviation and engineering will be the educational foundation that you will need in order to become a Raptor pilot. Graduating alone will not be enough. You will need to excel in your studies and show excellent leadership skills as well.
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Step 2
After graduating from the Air Force Academy, you will begin your pilot training. This will start in small, propeller-driven aircraft. You will then gradually work your way up to jet trainers such as the T38 Talon, until you officially earn your wings.
Step 3
Understand that your first assignment will probably not be in an F22. After flight training, you will probably be assigned to the F15 Eagle or the F16 Fighting Falcon, the predominant fighters in the U.S. Air Force. You will need to become proficient as a pilot before upgrading to the F22.
Step 4
After spending time in an F15 or F16, you can then apply for a transfer to F22 training. The training will teach you how to use the advanced avionics of this stealth fighter to its best ability as you serve the U.S. Air Force and the United States.
Warning
To become a pilot of an F22 will take years of hard work, discipline and a high degree of mental toughness on the part of the applicant.
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