Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be an Air Cadet?
Any youth who has reached their 12th birthday and has not turned 19 can be an Air Cadet. When you register, you will need to bring your birth certificate (or landed immigrant card) and your BC Care Card. We will take photocopies of these and return them the same night.
What does it cost to join?
There is little cost to join Air Cadets. The program is funded through a partnership between the Department of National Defence and the Air Cadet League of Canada. While DND does not charge any fees for youth to join Air Cadets, the Air Cadet League local sponsor may request a fee to help cover the cost of the Provincial Assessment fee levied against every cadet in the programme. This helps offset the high cost of running a flying programme for youth which involves the purchase and maintenance of a glider and tow plane fleet.
When do I get a uniform?
You will be loaned (at no charge) a uniform generally within the first 3 to 5 weeks as long as stock is available. What sort of things do Air Cadets do?
Air Cadets do many things including: flying and gliding, marksmanship, drill, music, and first aid. In addition, Cadets learn Canadian citizenship, leadership, and instructional techniques. Cadets have can also get involved in the Duke of Edinburgh program.
When do Air Cadets meet?
Generally, an Air Cadet squadron will parade one night per week during school months.
Where can I find a local Air Cadet Squadron?
Our Find a Unit page can help you locate an Air Cadet Squadron in your local area. Air Cadets exist in many communities throughout the province.
Do Air Cadets do anything on weekends?
Most definitely yes. During the training year (September to June) they do several weekend activities. These include familiarization and glider flying, survival training and other optional activites such as band, drill, first aid and marksmanship.
What about summertime?
Every year Air Cadets from all across Canada apply for summer training. There are numerous courses that are run. Each of them is specialized to allow the cadets to reach certain goals. In addition to summer training, a select group of Air Cadets get the privilege of visiting other countries on an international exchange.
Who runs the program?
The program is run and administered by a select group of reserve officers specially trained to instruct cadets. These officers are members of the Canadian Forces and take courses that give them specialized training in working with youth, organizing cadet activities, and harassment & abuse prevention.
Can parents get involved?
Absolutely! Parents are encouraged to get involved with the local sponsoring committee. They support extra training exercises and organize fund-raising activities.