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US Air Force Brig. Gen. Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager, retired, preparing to board an F-15D Eagle from the 65th Aggressor Squadron in 2012 at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. DVIDSHUB
You may know that Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager of the US Air Force holds the distinction of being the first man to travel faster than the speed of sound, is one of the force’s most prolific test pilots, and is perhaps the greatest military pilot of all time – but did you know he’s very active on Twitter?
The legendary general recently weighed in on the $1 trillion F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. Here’s what he said:
“Waste of money.”
This is a far cry from the current Air Force brass’ ringing endorsement of the aircraft. But with the aircraft costing about $100 million each, and with the highest price tag ever associated with developing a weapons system, perhaps Yeager thinks the money would be better spent on training pilots and maintaining a more traditional Air Force.
So I thought to ask him what he thought about restarting the F-22, the world’s first fifth-generation aircraft. While the F-22 costs are also very high, it functions a bit more like a traditional fighter jet than the multirole F-35, which I thought maybe Yeager would appreciate. So what did he think?
So there you have it. According to perhaps the greatest living military pilot, the entire fifth generation of US Air Force jets are a waste of money.
Better luck next time.
Bucket List For Pilots | Loungtastic
1) Aerobatic Flying
Straight-and-level flight is nice, but seeing the world upside-down is unforgettable.
While you may never need a complex aircraft rating, it's a worthwhile experience nonetheless. Find a local instructor to try it out. But please, don't forget to lower the landing gear!
Flying without an engine is not only peaceful and quiet, gliding teaches you some excellent flying skills. You'll learn about using thermals and air currents to your advantage.
A majority of newly minted pilots have never trained on tailwheel aircraft. Not only are they fun, but they'll improve your rudder and overall aircraft handling skills.
We're not just talking about "hood time," this is the real deal. Flying into IMC is the greatest cause of death for private pilots. Try an IMC flight with an instrument instructor to see why getting your instrument rating is TOTALLY worth it.
You'll be getting pretty close to the flight levels if you're using oxygen. Having an oxygen-required flight is a must for any pilot who wants to fly where the air is thin.
Are your radio skills ready for a Class B airport? Flying a light aircraft into the pattern with dozens commercial airliners isn't easy, but it sure makes you feel like the captain of your aircraft.
8) Seaplanes
Sure, we love airports, but sometimes it's just more fun to land somewhere a little less crowded. Who's ready for a beach trip?
9) Mountain Flying
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