Article

Training a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force (USAF) costs between $7 million and $17 million in 2026, depending on the aircraft type. Adjusted figures indicate F-16 pilots cost $7-8 million, while F-22 pilots may exceed $16 million.

Training includes various components such as Undergraduate Pilot Training and mission training, lasting two to three years. The USAF faces retention challenges as commercial airlines offer better salaries, making retention incentives crucial for the investment in pilot training.