How well will a non-pilot Command PACAF?

I really wonder if Command and piloting an airplane are the same thing? Yes, I understand that the experience of being a pilot might make you more able to get the respect of pilots, but they are a really small part of the Air Force Pacific organization. How well you lead and manage is, at least to me a better mark of the ability to command any group.

Navy has for a long time required Deep Draft Command to go on in Command of an Aircraft Carrier and that almost always goes to an Aviator. Does that really have to be a qualifier for Command of a Ship that large? I have met many non-aviators who command well and many aviators who really belong in a cockpit, no matter their rank.

LTG Robinson is still a Pilot; and though considered a non-combat aviator, her selection is in line with the strategic vision of the Air Force Chief of Staff. If it would have been a Logistics or Intelligence Officer then I would have thought it was odd (after I picked myself up off the floor in disbelief ;) Even in the Army we see from time to time an appointment of a non tip of the spear General to our command positions in DIV/CORPS...but rarely at the four star level. I think the mission in PACAF is probably far more relevant to her experiences than a fighter pilot's would be...not much combat action happening in the Pacific; but a whole lotta movement and support in our aligned nations. LTG Robinson will shine; but sadly will have very little effect on the AF culture as a whole.

I believe it is a good thing to start getting a broader spectrum of individuals into higher command slots. As a history major, I've seen the bad from the early days when the bomber pilots ruled and can see the effects the fighter pilots have had. I believe this is a good follow on to Gen Schwarz's selection as CSAF. We need to keep this up and potentially not just allow pilots, but other career fields in as well. They have different perspectives that can aid in our successful accomplishment of the mission. As others have mentioned, I agree that the ability to fly should not be a major prerequisite to a high ranking command.