Objective To investigate the risk factors of lumbar degenerative diseases among fighter pilots, and develop targeted prevention and treatment strategies. Methods Pilots were assessed by a questionnaire and spinal imaging data (including lumbar magnetic resonance imaging and X-ray scans). The questionnaire covered general information, lifestyle, flight training, and other exposure factors. Pilots with lumbar degenerative diseases were categorized into the degenerative group, while others were classified as healthy group. The risk factors of lumbar degenerative diseases were screened by univariate analysis and logistic regression model. Results The overall prevalence of lumbar degenerative diseases was 45.8% (66/144) among the fighter pilots. Sedentary lifestyle (odds ratio [OR]=2.714, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.351-5.375, P=0.004), lack of lumbar and back muscle exercise (OR=3.136, 95% CI 1.536-6.037, P=0.001), static postural discomfort during flight (OR=8.160, 95% CI 3.152-21.120, P<0.001), lumbar sagittal misalignment during flight (OR=8.397, 95% CI 3.367-20.942, P<0.001), and lumbar coronal misalignment during flight (OR=2.744, 95% CI 1.102-6.831, P=0.030) were risk factors of lumbar degenerative diseases among fighter pilots. Conclusion The prevalence of lumbar degenerative diseases is high among fighter pilots, primarily due to continuous static postural discomfort and lumbar coronal and sagittal instability during flight. Reducing sedentary lifestyle and strengthening lumbar and back muscle exercise are crucial preventive measures against the development of lumbar degenerative diseases.