Program
The Air Cadet Program is a national youth program that provides Canadians aged 12 to 18 with fun, challenging, and rewarding activities. The aim of this program is:
To develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership. Cadets learn valuable life and work skills, such as teamwork, professionalism, mutual respect, integrity, and leadership. They are also encouraged to become active and responsible members of the community, by contributing to environmental, citizenship, and community activities.
Promote physical fitness. Cadets develop an understanding of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. They also participate in fitness activities, which teach them to play fairly and enable them to take on new challenges.
Stimulate the interest of youth in the air activities of the Canadian Forces. Exposure to the air element of the Canadian Forces is a unique part of the program, distinguishing it from other youth organizations. However, it is important to note that Air Cadets are not members of the Canadian Forces, nor are they expected to join the military.
Cadets is a great way for youth to learn more about Canada, make new friends and develop life skills that will enable them to succeed no matter what career they choose.
What do you do in Cadets?
Each squadron trains one night per week — a “parade night” — to undertake the local training program. The course of instruction is prescribed by the Comd Natl CJCR Sp Gp and outlined in course training plans distributed to each squadron. The four-year program provides cadets instruction in citizenship, leadership, survival training, instructional techniques, drill and ceremonial and the basics of aviation and aeronautics. In the fifth and subsequent years, cadets may be assigned to instruct these classes to the younger cadets. The local training begins in September and continues until June.
Can I get my pilot’s license?
Yes! Air Cadets offers two Transport Canada Pilot licenses, The Glider Pilot License (GPL) and the Private Pilot License (PPL). Scholarships are offered to air cadets in order for them to get their pilot licenses at various airfields and flying clubs around the province. The licenses are free through Air Cadets (the GPL normally costs $2,000, while PPL normally costs around $8,000). Cadets just have study and work hard the be the select few who are chosen throughout the country.
During the year, cadets with a glider license can fly at various cadet gliding centres around the province during weekends, and scholarships are offered to pay for continued flying when some cadets retire. In fact, over 60 percent of Canada’s airline pilots got their start in air Cadets.
Do cadets have to join the military?
Air Cadets are not members of the Canadian Armed Forces, nor will they ever be asked to join. If you choose to join though, you will have a great advantage over other applicants (many high-ranking officers and NCMs in the Canadian Armed Forces started off in the cadet program). However, cadets will never be required to serve with the military.