Flight cadet
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A flight cadet or is a military or civilian occupational title that is held by someone who is in training to perform aircrew duties in an airplane.[1] The trainee does not need to become a pilot, as flight cadets may also learn to serve as a bombardier, navigator, or flight engineer.
Civil Air Patrol
[edit]In the United States, the Civil Air Patrol operates an extensive flight cadet program for youth over the age of 12, up to just before 21st birthdays. As of 30 September 2023[update], CAP oversaw over 29,000 cadets.[2] One of the prime recruiting features is training on how to use a drone.[3]
Flying Cadet Pilot Training Program (USAAS)
[edit]From 1907 to 1947, the army ran this program to train pilots for the US Army Air Service (1918-1926), US Army Air Corps (1926–1941), and US Army Air Force (1941–1947). During America's involvement in World War II (1942–1945), the rank of flight cadet was changed to that of aviation cadet, often abbreviated as A/C, and the program name was changed to the "Aviation Cadet Training Program".
From 1947, this program was run by the now separate US Air Force. The pilot cadet program ended in 1961, but the navigator cadet program ended in 1965.
Naval Aviator Training Program (USN)
[edit]Royal Air Force
[edit]The Royal Air Force operated a flight cadet scheme at the RAF College Cranwell until 1977.
References
[edit]- ^ "Definition of AVIATION CADET". www.merriam-webster.com. Retrieved 2024-08-14.
- ^ "2022 Report to Congress". Civil Air Patrol. February 13, 2023. Archived from the original on 22 May 2023. Retrieved November 3, 2025.
- ^ Barrier, Donavan (1 October 2025). "Building confidence, connection". Newspapers.com. La Porte County Herald-Dispatch. p. A6. Retrieved 3 November 2025.