In the barracks "Colonel Mirko Vukušić" in Zemunik, which is part of the 392nd squadron of the 93rd wing of the Croatian Air Force, selection flights for future military pilots were held on August 8, 2024.

Participants of this year's program
The selection flight gathers students from the third and fourth grades of high schools who want to become military pilots. This year, the interest in participating was high, indicating increased interest among young people in military aviation and a career as a pilot in the Croatian Air Force.

The selection flight process is carried out on ZLIN-242 L aircraft, where candidates undergo various tests and evaluations. The key element of the selection process is the test flight, which assesses the candidate's ability to become a military pilot and their ability to master the necessary elements of flying. Through this process, candidates demonstrate their adaptability and readiness for further training in the field of military aviation.

Training under expert supervision
The training takes place under the watchful eye of experienced military flight instructors, who are members of the 93rd wing and the HRZ Training Center "Rudolf Perešin". Instructors play an important role in transferring knowledge and skills to new generations of pilots, ensuring that each candidate receives the individual attention and support needed for success.

All flights and activities within the selection process are carefully planned and executed in accordance with pre-defined flight plans and high safety standards. Candidates have gone through various simulations and scenarios designed to test their reaction to different situations that may arise during the flight.

Evaluation and selection of candidates
After the selection flight is completed, a professional commission evaluates all aspects of the candidates' performance. The commission, composed of experienced experts in the field of aviation, analyzes in detail the knowledge, skills, and potential of each candidate. Their assessment is based on the candidate's ability to cope with the challenges of flying, their technical competence, and decision-making ability in stressful situations.

This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most qualified candidates continue their education and training for military pilots, thereby ensuring the quality and efficiency of the future personnel of the Croatian Air Force. Their training continues in specialized centers where they will face advanced flying techniques and strategies that are crucial for their future careers.

The importance of selection flight
The selection flight is a fundamental step in the career of every military pilot. Through this process, candidates not only demonstrate their technical abilities but also develop personal characteristics such as responsibility, determination, and teamwork, which are crucial for success in military aviation. Therefore, successful participation in the selection flight opens the door to further education and training, preparing candidates for all the challenges that a military pilot's career brings.