U.S. Naval Test Pilot School

08/18/2026

Earlier this summer, USNTPS supported the Sustainability Office of Atlantic Test Range (ATR) in validating upgraded sonic boom monitoring equipment at NAS Patuxent River. These monitors are an important part of ATR’s comprehensive Noise Management Program, providing reliable data on the frequency and intensity of sonic booms that may affect surrounding communities, and allowing ATR to identify and assess sonic boom events in real time.

Using the T-38 Talon, USNTPS instructors, in conjunction with ATR, developed the flight plans and procedures needed to safely generate the pressure levels required to test and evaluate the new sensors. This effort supports more than testing. It helps maintain transparency with our local community while ensuring ATR has reliable data to monitor and manage sonic boom activity.

During routine training, our students fly at high altitudes and along carefully planned routes so that sonic booms occur over the water, minimizing impacts on surrounding communities. This allows future flight test leaders to safely experience supersonic flight conditions while respecting environmental standards and being good neighbors.

08/11/2026

🎉 Welcome, Class 170! ✈️🚁

We are pleased to officially welcome Class 170 - a talented group of aircrew and engineers ready to take on the challenges of flight test. Their journey will be defined by innovation, precision, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Class 170, your adventure is underway. Fly smart. Test boldly. Ask the hard questions. We can't wait to see what you'll accomplish.

08/09/2026

08/03/2026

Throughout their visit to USNTPS, the Artemis III crew learned how to plan, execute, analyze, and communicate formal handling qualities evaluations—the same disciplined flight test process used to safely evaluate new aircraft and spacecraft.

Using the Calspan Variable Stability Learjet and the USNTPS Variable Stability UH-60L Black Hawk, the crew experienced a wide range of aircraft responses while practicing how to objectively assess vehicle performance and communicate their observations. Among the crew is mission commander Randy Bresnik - retired U.S. Marine Corps colonel, USNTPS Class 116 alumnus, and former USNTPS instructor - highlighting the enduring connection between the school and NASA's Johnson Space Center.

Effective flight test education isn't just about flying; it's about turning pilot experience into actionable engineering data that shapes the next generation of aerospace systems.

We're proud to support NASA as they prepare for Artemis III and are honored to share the expertise our instructors, staff, and maintenance bring to every USNTPS classroom and cockpit.

07/29/2026

Last week, we welcomed the crew of Artemis III for a specialized short course in Advanced Handling Qualities.

NASA's Johnson Space Center requested USNTPS support for this training based on our technical expertise, experienced instructors, and unique flight test capabilities.

This collaboration reflects decades of interaction between USNTPS and NASA in support of advancing flight test and aerospace research. It's also a testament to the caliber of our instructors, whose expertise is relied upon by professionals preparing to return humans to the Moon.

The same instructors supporting NASA’s astronaut training are the ones developing every USNTPS student who walks through our doors.

07/21/2026

For over 80 years, the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School has been training the best pilots in the world to evaluate aircraft and weapon systems used by the , with some of those test pilots going on to have historically significant careers—including reaching for the stars as with NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

On this , read about the 's rich history in the Naval Aviation News special 2025 Year in Review edition, available at https://navalaviationnews.navy.mil/

07/21/2026

Last week, we welcomed Class 170 as they begin their 11-month course of instruction at USNTPS. But preparing to become a flight test professional starts long before the first lecture or first flight.

As part of their pre-arrival training, USNTPS students renew their survival swim qualifications at Aviation Survival Training Center (ASTC) at NAS Patuxent River, reinforcing the survival skills needed to respond safely in the unlikely event of an emergency.

ASTC provides a wide range of aviation survival training. USNTPS students complete an "All Qual" refresher, renewing their proficiency with aircraft egress and survival procedures across multiple platforms in preparation for the various aircraft they'll fly and evaluate throughout the course.

Confidence in the cockpit begins with preparation on the ground - and at USNTPS, that preparation starts before day one.

07/04/2026

Happy 250th Fourth of July!

Today marks 250 years since our nation declared its independence - two and a half centuries defined by courage, ingenuity, and technical mastery that continue to redefine what is possible. As we celebrate this historic milestone, we honor the generations of Americans who built, defended, and advanced the nation we serve.

Here at USNTPS, our mission reflects that enduring legacy. Every day, our students, instructors, and alumni apply disciplined test principles and rigorous science to strengthen naval aviation, ensuring our fleet receives capabilities worthy of the nation they protect.

The work we do is demanding, precise, and deeply rooted in the same spirit of innovation that has carried America through 250 years of freedom.

To all who serve, have served, and support this vital mission - thank you.

Wishing everyone a safe and proud Independence Day. 🎇

06/16/2026

06/16/2026