Major Jeon Young-gi Named Best Pilot of the Year

[Asia Economy Military Specialist Yang Nak-gyu] Major Jeon Young-gi (Air Force Academy Class 53, main aircraft F-16, photo) of the 19th Fighter Wing was selected as the '2020 Air Force Best Pilot.'

According to the Air Force on the 2nd, the Best Pilot is selected based on flight experience, number of operational missions, contribution to flight safety, physical fitness, and other criteria over the year for all pilots serving in frontline flying units. Major Jeon scored 735 out of 1000 points and received the Presidential Citation at the award ceremony that day.

Unlike the 'Top Gun,' the winner of the Boramae Air Shooting Competition, this award is given to the pilot who has demonstrated the most outstanding performance across all mission areas.

By aircraft category, Major Song Seung-hwan, an F-15K pilot, Major Kang Jung-ho, an FA-50 trainer pilot, and Major Kang Byung-ji, an HH-47D maneuver/control pilot, each received the Minister of National Defense Citation. In addition, 22 pilots selected as excellent pilots by aircraft type received the Air Force Chief of Staff Citation.

Major Jeon said, "I want to dedicate the honor of this award to my wife who supported me and my beloved three children who always trusted and followed me," adding, "It is thanks to the support of all pilots and maintenance personnel who work tirelessly behind the scenes."