Attack Aircraft: Human vs Machine

MAJ Ridge “KELSO” Flick

In this week's episode, we're diving into some unique human performance considerations for close air support pilots. Everything from cognitive performance to neck strength to how pilots go to the bathroom in single-seat aircraft...

Major Ridge "KELSO" Flick is a military pilot with over 2000 cumulative flight hours in the T-6, T-38, and A-10C. He flew A-10 combat missions supporting Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Freedom Sentinel in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. He is currently the A-10C Program Element Monitor (PEM) at Air Combat Command. In that role, Maj Flick monitors all A-10C modernization and sustainment programs by working with the A-10 squadrons, the System Program Office, the A-10 test team, Headquarters Air Force, and other Major Command staffs to ensure the A-10 remains the greatest Close Air Support aircraft in the world.

He received a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy where he was academically near the top of his class and the lacrosse team captain.