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Cadet Wings
Applications for Cadet Wings are now closed
Next Year's Applications open on July 1, 2027
Cadet Wings Applications Are Closed!
Applications open 1 July, 2027
To prepare for your Cadet Wings Application, please watch our Cadet Wings Application Preparation Webinar here.
What is Cadet Wings?
Cadet Wings is a merit-based program for cadets pursuing a Private Pilot Certificate (PPC). Cadets complete their training at a local flight school or with CAP flight instructors using our CAP Cessna 172 aircraft. Funding for this program comes from the United States Air Force and other funding partners such as the James C. Ray Flight Training Scholarship with the goal of developing tomorrow's aerospace leaders. To learn more about how to become a pilot with the Civil Air Patrol please watch this video.
How do I apply?
Apply through the e-Services "Registration Zone" module. It is only open from July 1st to September 1st @ noon (CST). There are no late applications accepted.
What is a Navigator?
A Navigator is a local senior member mentor who champions cadet private pilot flight training. Cadets list their chosen Navigator on their Application. Having a Navigator is very important, and we know that Cadets with support at the local level experience greater success in their pilot training. Cadets who have a Navigator are eligible for the Cadet Wings program funding through The James C. Ray Flight Training Scholarship. To learn more about how to become a Navigator, click here.
What are the qualifications?
The minimum requirements are outlined in CAPP 60-43 and here:
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Wright Brothers Award
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Graduated Encampment
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Does not currently hold a private pilot certificate
Ideal Candidates should be prepared to upload the following documents:
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Aircraft Ground Handling (within the past 2 years)
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Student Pilot Certificate
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FAA Medical Certificate- Class III (not needed for glider)
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Solo Endorsement —does not need to be in the same type of aircraft; glider solo will be accepted for private pilot — single-engine land, or, colloquially, glider solo will be accepted for the powered aircraft track.
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Passing score on the FAA Knowledge Test, aka Written Test
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Complete Log Book of flights
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Wings Commitment Statement
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Support Document-- only if you are missing any of the above criteria
Can I apply for Cadet Wings if I do not have all the qualifications?
Yes, you can apply for Cadet Wings without all the Ideal Candidate Criteria. However, the Youth Initiative Panel will consider cadets who meet the prerequisites first, and there are limited spots available. Please include an explanation/s for the documents you are missing in your support document. There are several resources available to you through Cadet Programs, such as free ground school, FAA Knowledge Test reimbursement, and flight academy scholarships. To learn more about our partnership with the EAA, please visit this webpage.
Quick Links
CAPP 60-43 |
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Cadet Wings Graduates |
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