SK: Surging Oil Prices Hit Pilot Training

Skyrocketing oil prices are compromising the Air Force’s combat capability by reducing flight training hours for pilots, a state-funded defense think tank said Monday.

The Korea Institute for Defense Analyses (KIDA) said in a publication that current surging oil prices beyond $60 a barrel are preventing pilots from undergoing the minimum 160 hours flight training required for combat pilots to maintain their aircraft maneuvering skills.
“The training time of pilots is now only 134 hours, five hours shorter than 2003,” the publication titled “Why is Energy Security Important?” said.

“Such a lack of proper training raises concerns over the Air Force’s combat readiness and safety,” it also included.

Under the Air Force’s flight management manual, pilots are required to have 240 hours of flight training per year to keep their skills at top level, 180 hours for medium level, it said.

At least 160 hours of training are needed for maintaining a basic level of skills, it added.

Pilots from other advanced countries air forces receive 150 to 260 hours of flight training a year, the report said.

Korea Times