About Us
About C17Pilot
C17Pilot is a military aviation resource created by former and current United States Air Force C-17 Globemaster III pilots and crew members. We provide accurate, experience-based information about C-17 operations, pilot training pathways, and military airlift careers.
Who We Are
Our team includes former USAF aviators with extensive C-17 operational experience across multiple commands and theaters. We’ve collectively logged thousands of flight hours conducting airdrop operations, strategic airlift missions, and humanitarian relief operations on six continents.
We understand what it takes to become a C-17 pilot because we’ve lived it—from Initial Qualification training at Altus AFB to operational squadron deployments and the unique demands of flying the Air Force’s premier strategic airlifter.
Our Mission
C17Pilot serves three primary audiences:
- Aspiring Military Pilots: Students and civilians researching Air Force pilot careers and whether the C-17 community fits their goals
- Current C-17 Aviators: Active duty, Guard, and Reserve pilots seeking training resources, career guidance, and community insights
- Aviation Enthusiasts: People fascinated by military aviation, strategic airlift operations, and the C-17 Globemaster III
What Makes Us Different
Our content comes from people with direct operational experience:
- C-17 Initial Qualification training graduates from Altus AFB
- Qualified Aircraft Commanders from operational squadrons
- Airdrop, air refueling, and tactical airlift mission experience
- Combat zone and humanitarian relief deployments
- Instructor Pilot qualifications
- Military to civilian aviation transitions
When we explain C-17 airdrop operations, it’s because we’ve executed them at 250 feet AGL. When we describe pilot training, it’s because we’ve completed it and taught it to others.
Our Contributors
Michael King – Senior Editor
Former USAF C-17 pilot with 12 years flying the Globemaster III. Michael served as Aircraft Commander and Instructor Pilot at the 97th Air Mobility Wing, Altus AFB, training dozens of new C-17 pilots. He specialized in airdrop operations and logged over 2,500 flight hours across five continents. Michael holds qualifications in Airdrop, Air Refueling Receiver, and Night Vision Goggle operations.
Marcus Bellamy – Staff Writer
Former U.S. Air Force C-17 loadmaster with over 15 years of experience in military airlift operations. Marcus flew missions across six continents, including humanitarian relief and combat support operations. Now retired, he writes about C-17 history, operations, and the crews who keep these aircraft flying.
Sarah Morrison – Gear Specialist
Aviation gear specialist and former flight operations coordinator with 8+ years supporting C-17 operations. Sarah reviews pilot equipment and aviation technology, drawing on her flight ops background to recommend gear that works in operational environments.
Emily Chen – Contributing Writer
Former Air Force officer and aviation operations specialist with extensive experience in airlift mission planning and execution. Emily provides insights on C-17 operational procedures, mission planning, and career guidance for aspiring military aviators.
Content Standards
Every article on C17Pilot meets these standards:
- Experience-Based: Written by people who have done what they’re describing
- Fact-Checked: Verified against official Air Force publications and operational procedures
- Current: Regularly updated to reflect training procedures and operational realities
- Transparent: Clear disclosure of affiliate links and sponsored content
Affiliate Disclosure
C17Pilot participates in the Amazon Associates program. When you purchase through our affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we’ve personally used or that have been recommended by operational pilots.
Product recommendations are based on operational experience and genuine belief in their value to pilots—not commission potential.
Accuracy and Disclaimer
We take accuracy seriously. If you find errors or outdated information, please contact us.
Official Air Force regulations and guidance always supersede our content. For official information, consult current Air Force Instructions (AFIs), Air Force Manuals (AFMANs), and your chain of command.
C17Pilot is an independent website. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing the United States Air Force, Department of Defense, or any government entity. Views expressed are those of individual authors.
Contact Us
Questions, suggestions, or feedback? Email us at contact@c17pilot.com
Whether you’re researching how to become a C-17 pilot, looking for training advice, or interested in military aviation, we’re here to help.