Ask Captain Lim ~ All about Aviation - Is it true that pilots have to be really slender?

Hi Captain Lim,

What a great site! I should have discovered it earlier! I have just received news from the Singapore Air Force that I have passed the Computerized Pilot Selection Test I took in December 2005. I was asked to attend an interview. However, they needed to have my full Diploma certificate before they can schedule me for the interview.

I left school at the age of 17 when I was in my first year of Polytechnic studies due to family situation. Thus, my highest qualification is only GCE *O* Levels. I did mention in my application that I*m currently taking a Diploma from the Marketing Institute of Singapore. That*s why I was shocked to receive the letters to invite me for the two pilot tests.

I was told that the test results are valid for 2 years. Therefore, I will finish my Diploma by Sept 2006, and continue my application as an SAF Pilot.

I have some questions: Is it true that pilots have to be really slender? (I am not exactly that, but working hard to get rid of those extra pounds now)

Are girls less suitable for pilot position? Given my educational qualifications, I feel a little inferior to the rest. Is an educational qualification really that important? Can you give me some suggestions as to what and how to prepare myself for the interview?

I*m nervous about what*s gonna happen next, yet I*m hopeful and would definitely do my best to prepare myself during this period of time.

Really grateful for your help!

Emily.

Hi Emily,

It is not true that a pilot must be slender; the most important thing is that she (if a female) must be physically fit to satisfy the pilot medical exam.

For various reasons, female pilots are the minority in the Air Force or the airlines. If you satisfy the minimum qualification, there is no need to feel inferior as piloting skills does not depend on how many A*s one has but rather on how well she can fly. I have seen graduates failing their flying courses not because they are not smart enough - they failed because they did not posses the aptitude to be a pilot.

There are already some resources in my Pilot Career FAQ on preparing for the interview. Please browse through them and participate in the Forums too.

Good Luck to your new career.