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The pilot aptitude battery test (PABT) is a series of tests aimed at checking a person’s ability to become an air-force pilot. It is conducted by the Indian Air Force. PABT is probably the only selection and assessment mechanism to check the aptitude of pilot’s for a career in the skies.

A pilot’s career is not easy. At every stage of a pilot’s career, there are serious risks involved. A pilot carries the lives of people in their hands. It is certainly one of the bravest jobs in the world.

Three tests comprise the PABT. Instrument Battery Test (INSB), Sensory Motor Apparatus Test (SMA) and Control Velocity Test (CVT).

Instrument Battery Test consists of three tests. One is a written test, and other two are practical tests. Comprising of two parts, INSB assesses a pilot’s ability to judge signals displayed on the instrument panel of an aircraft.

Candidates need to score minimum marks in INSB. Cleared candidates go on to do the machine tests. The machine tests are Sensory Motor Apparatus Test (SMA) and Control Velocity Test (CVT). These tests check the level of alertness in the candidate. The candidate should be able to respond to situations with firm and correct decisions.

Only the best qualify. Pilot aptitude battery tests are designed to meet the needs of everyday civil and military aviation. It requires its candidates to be mentally and physically fit for the rigors of flight. To take to the skies in metal bird requires much more than ordinary.