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<p>From my recent talks with some friends (both pilots and MS) who are there now, it’s your first reason; NASA is playing fair and attempts to select equal number of pilots from both services as part of it’s acceptance equation. Some years they pick more from the AF, some years more from the Navy…</p>
<p>Does this mean you have a greater chance to get in flying for the Navy? Statisically, sure (since you have a smaller field to choose from). From my years of flying fighters, I find that both sides are pretty much equal in getting the mission done, so I don’t think it’s an ability thing. Thinking of this another way, you’ll have four times as many guys from the AF applying for each class, so it’s four times more competitive on our side. Does this mean the AF pilot’s are that much better because their selection process is that much tougher? Absolutely not. I have been told from those there that the ability is equal amongst both services within the NASA pilot corps. </p>
<p>So, statistically, 69 is right, you have a smaller pool to compete against, so you’ll have a better chance of getting a NASA slot from the Navy than from the AF. But in the end, it doesn’t really matter (and is a useless debate based on trivial service rivalry). The equation for selection is simple: be the best darn pilot around you, work harder than anyone else by a mile, and keep focused on your dream constantly. The color of service dress uniform plays little to no part in that.</p>