From Sirkin the school moved to Tel Nof Air Force Base and from there to its current location at Hatzerim Air Force Base. The primary mission of the Flight Academy is to qualify aircrews. Flying, however, is only part of the story. A major emphasis is placed on training young men to be officers and leaders. The ultimate graduate is first a fighter - then a pilot.
Pilots undergo a rigorous screening process before they begin their military service.
Local induction centers earmark outstanding teenagers for pilot training. This grueling ordeal tests their mettle both as individuals and as members of a group. Many are washed out. The two-year course is made up of four semesters, each 6 months long. Cadets are classified for training as fixed-wing or helicopter pilots, navigators or flight engineers.