Flying
Flying with the Air Cadet Organisation takes place a two seater, low wing monoplane aircraft called the Grob Tutor.
The Grob Tutor is the basic training aircraft of the Royal Air Force. All Pilots and Navigators who join start off in the Tutor or a similar aircraft. All cadets get the opportunity to fly in the Tutor at least once a year.
As a squadron we generally get 12 cadet flying slots every year. Cadets also get the opportunity to go flying when they are away on camp.
For your flight you will watch a safety video, be fitted with a parachute and a helmet, you will also receive a pre flight briefing from your pilot. Your flying session will last 30 minutes during which time you will take control of the aircraft and have the opportunity to do some aerobatics.
Some cadets also get the opportunity to go flying in different aircraft when they are on RAF camp. Cadets of the squadron have been flying in the below aircraft.
Gliding
Gliding is offered to all enrolled cadets and staff members.
2386 Squadron goes gliding in the Viking which is a two seater high performance sail plane, that can be winch launched (which is more common) or launched by an aero tow.
Enrolled cadets are able to go gliding and take part in the Gilding Induction Courses (GIC 1-3).
- GIC 1–3
- Launches where you are taught about the pitch, roll and yaw of the aircraft.
- GIC 2–4
- Launches going over previously taught information and the introduction of some of the flight instruments.
- GIC 3–5
- Launches putting together all previously taught information and the introduction of stalling.
With the completion of each GIC you are given greater control of the glider. You will receive a certificate for successfully completing each GIC Award.
Gliding Scholarship
Cadets who are over 16 have the opportunity to complete a Gliding Scholarship (GS). If you are 16 or over speak to a member of squadron staff to find out about gliding scholarships.
Once the initial paperwork is completed by the squadron and your doctor then you will be contacted with a start date for your scholarship.
Over the 40 launches allocated to your scholarship you will be instructed on the effects of the glider controls, how to take off and land, what to do in the event of a launch failure. You will also learn how to stall and recover the aircraft and what to do in an emergency.
The aim of the scholarship is for you to fly a solo circuit by the end of the 40 launches and achieve the silver wings. Cadets who complete the course but do not fly solo achieve the blue wings.
If you are offered the opportunity to complete Advanced Glider Training (AGT) you will develop on your skills gained during the GS with more solo flights and the award of gold wings.
You may be asked to become a staff cadet at the gilding squadron where you will learn more about gilding and possibly become a glider pilot so that you can fly other cadets.
For more information visit our local Gliding Squadron’s website.
