What's Involved at the Naval Flight School Academy in Pensacola?

Does anyone know what the Naval Flight School Academy in Pensacola is like? I'm curious about the daily schedule and the type of training involved. My brother is thinking about applying, so any insights would be helpful!

The Naval Aviator training program at Naval Air Station Pensacola, commonly referred to as flight school, is a challenging and comprehensive training program designed to prepare cadets for a career as a Naval Aviator.

Training starts with Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API), an intensive 6-week course covering the principles of aviation and the basics of aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation, flight physiology, and aircraft engine operation. This phase includes challenging classroom instruction along with physical training and water survival tests.

Once API is completed, cadets advance to the Primary Flight Training phase. This phase lasts about 6 months and consists of academic coursework, simulator training, and approximately 60 hours of flight time. Cadets practice basic flight skills such as take-offs and landings, navigation, and aerobatics.

Naval Flight Officers (NFOs) proceed to Intermediate and Advanced NFO training, while student pilots go on to Intermediate and Advanced Flight Training. The specific path from there can vary depending on the aircraft type the trainee will ultimately be assigned to fly. For instance, those who will fly jets will attend Intermediate Strike training, while those going on to fly propeller aircraft transition directly to Advanced training.

The training schedule will be rigorous. A typical day might start with physical training at dawn, followed by classroom instruction, simulator time, or flight training. Evenings might be spent studying or preparing for the next day's lessons.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that the program is designed to be demanding both physically and mentally. The training is intense and requires steadfast commitment and determination. Successful completion of the program results in being designated a Naval Aviator, allowing one to serve in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps as an aviator. Best of luck to your brother on his potential journey!