What We Do

Civil Air Patrol is America’s premier public service organization that provides emergency services and disaster relief missions nationwide. When performing Air Force–assigned missions, CAP operates as the auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Our vigilant citizen volunteers search for and find the lost, provide comfort in times of disaster, and work to keep the homeland safe. Our members selflessly devote their time, energy, and expertise toward the well-being of their communities, promoting aviation and related fields through aerospace education and helping shape future leaders through CAP’s cadet program.

Missions

Using emergency services-qualified members, CAP responds in operational service to Air Force-assigned and corporate operational missions. 

Purpose

CAP’s current charter, outlined by Congress in 1946, references the organization’s five purposes, codified in 36 U.S.C. §40302.

In plain language, Civil Air Patrol’s congressionally mandated charter designates the following purposes of the corporation:

• To encourage citizens to support aviation and be an example through volunteerism;

• To provide aviation training to its members;

• To promote the development of civil aviation in local communities;

• To rally its volunteers to respond to local and national emergencies; and

• To assist the Air Force with its non-combat programs and missions.

The three primary programs of Civil Air Patrol are:

Emergency Services

Always prepared, both in the air and on the ground, members of Civil Air Patrol perform emergency services for state and local agencies and the federal government as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and for states/local communities as a nonprofit organization. Ever vigilant, these true patriots make a difference in their communities, assisting in times of disaster, searching for the lost and protecting the homeland. 

Aerospace Education

Civil Air Patrol’s award-winning aerospace education program promotes aerospace, aviation, and STEM-related careers with engaging, standards-based, hands-on curriculum and activities. It shapes the experiences and aspirations of youth both in and outside CAP’s cadet program.

Cadet Programs

Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program transforms youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders through a curriculum focusing on leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character. As cadets participate in these four elements, they advance through a series of achievements, earning honors and increased responsibilities. Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots, engineers, and scientists first explored their careers through CAP.

“Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.”