Aeronautics Department Flight Test Course

The Aeronautics Department Flight Test Course (AE456/AE456L) is a nationally unique program that provides cadets with hands-on flight test experience, modeled after the curriculum of the USAF Test Pilot School. This course immerses cadets in both low-performance reciprocating engine flight test in the T-41D and high-performance jet flight test in the T-38, offering an unparalleled opportunity to develop real-world flight test skills.

Each year, only 32 top cadets from Aeronautics and select engineering majors are competitively selected to participate. The program culminates in a five-day offsite at Edwards AFB, where cadets conduct live test flights, analyze data, and engage with industry experts. Cadets return to the Academy to present formal flight test reports, gaining over 55 hours of academic credit in the process.

This experience directly supports the future of Air Force flight testing, ensuring that cadets graduate with firsthand exposure to advanced flight evaluation techniques, including handling qualities, spin and departure characteristics, and qualitative evaluations in high-performance aircraft. Since its inception, over 200 AE456 graduates have gone on to attend the USAF Test Pilot School, with many more poised to follow.

Support for this program ensures continued access to world-class flight test training, providing cadets with the resources needed to advance Air Force aviation and flight test capabilities. This includes travel to flight test locations and exposure to qualitative evaluations in unique aircraft.