The Current Predictive Validity of the Flight Aptitude Selection Test

The Flight Aptitude Selection Tests FAST, the Armys flight training selection instruments for Warrant and Commissioned Officers, were made operational in 1966. These tests have proved to be effective selection instruments. The pre- and post-FAST Flight Training success rates indicate a sizable increase following implementation of the batteries. However, because of intervening changes in flight training programs and in the population of aviation trainees, a revision of the FAST was undertaken. The present study was designed to assess the current predictive validity of the original operational battery, as a first step. The FAST battery is made up of four content areas 1 Personality and Leadership, 2 Spatial Ability, 3 Mechanical Ability, and 4 Aviation Information. In general, the Self-Description materials obtain their validity by predicting preflight success, and cognitive items predict flying and academic success.