It broke apart perfectly because that's simply how the Hollywood producers scripted it.  That was a good movie, but that scene was pretty unrealistic.

All Air Force pilots must prove themselves in a controlled environment first. You receive training on how to properly ''G strain'' to keep the blood in your head which will keep you from blacking out (losing vision) or worse, GLOC (Gravity-induced Loss of Consciousness). This training is done in a centrifuge that spins incredibly fast to place you ...

The wire is actually a detonation chord.  During the ejection sequence, the chord fractures the canopy allowing the pilot to safely eject through it.  Some jets, like the F-16, don't have detonation chords and have to blow the canopy completely off first before the seat can safely eject from the aircraft.  

Another option everyone forgets is the Air National Guard or AF Reserves.  If one ANG unit won't hire you, you can still apply to every other one that interests you.  Keep applying and you'll always have a chance.  One more thing to remember is that almost everything is waiverable.  This is very true.  If an ANG or ...

Don't forget the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve options.  These routes allow you to secure a pilot slot before you actually make any commitment.  And many ANG or AFRC pilots fly full time, just like active duty Air Force. Ryan

One additional requirement for fighter pilots is the ability to pass centrifuge training.  Depending on which fighter you are going to fly, you may need to demonstrate that you can properly withstand up to 9 Gs for a sustained period of time.  There is also a FACT (Fighter Aircrew Conditioning Test) that all fighter pilots must ...

Here is a great resource for increasing your chances to become an Air Force pilot.  It is a tell-all book written by a current AF pilot that reveals insights that you will never hear from any AF recruiter.  Becoming a pilot in the AF is very competetive and this could provide the nugget of insider information that sets you apart. Check it