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Pilot Qualifications and Endorsements

Civil Air Patrol offers multiple pathways for pilots to become qualified in various roles, from flying CAP aircraft as a VFR pilot to participating in advanced search and rescue operations as a Mission Pilot. These qualifications and endorsements are designed to ensure that CAP pilots operate safely and in compliance with both CAP regulations and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards.

This section provides an overview of the available pilot qualifications and endorsements within CAP. Whether you are a new CAP member or seeking to expand your qualifications, this guide will help you understand the available options and direct you to additional resources for completing your qualifications.

Pilot Qualifications

Each CAP pilot must meet certain qualifications depending on their specific role within CAP missions. Below are the primary CAP pilot qualifications, each of which has specific requirements to guide your training and operational readiness:

  • VFR Pilot

    VFR pilots are qualified to fly CAP aircraft under visual flight rules. This is the entry-level qualification for CAP pilots and is granted through completion of a CAP Pilot Flight Evaluation (Form 5) and meeting FAA medical and certificate requirements.

  • Glider Pilot

    CAP offers specific qualifications for glider pilots who focus on non-powered flight operations. This path is open to pilots who possess the necessary FAA Glider Pilot certificates.

  • Orientation Pilot

    Orientation Pilots provide cadet orientation flights, introducing young members to the fundamentals of aviation. Both powered and glider orientation pilots must meet specific flying hours and training requirements.

  • Transport Mission Pilot (TMP)

    TMPs are responsible for flying non-emergency transport missions, such as moving personnel and equipment. This Emergency Services qualification is an excellent steppingstone toward becoming a Mission Pilot.

  • Mission Pilot (MP)

    Mission Pilots operate during CAP missions such as search and rescue, disaster relief, and emergency response. This qualification requires additional experience and specific training beyond that of a VFR pilot.

  • Instructor Pilot

    Instructor Pilots play a critical role in training CAP pilots, assisting with onboarding or return to flight, or helping keep CAP pilots proficient and current through flight reviews and instrument proficiency checks. All CAP IPs must hold FAA Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI) credentials. 

CAP-Specific Endorsements

In addition to FAA certificates and CAP qualifications, CAP pilots can pursue endorsements in CAP aircraft for additional training and proficiency in various aircraft and systems. These endorsements allow CAP pilots to expand their operational capabilities and operate specialized equipment. Below are some of the endorsements available to CAP pilots:

  • Complex Aircraft Endorsement
    Allows pilots to operate aircraft with retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable-pitch propeller. This FAA endorsement must be logged in your flight record and verified in CAP Ops Quals.

  • High-Performance Aircraft Endorsement
    This endorsement is required to operate CAP aircraft with an engine greater than 200 horsepower. In addition to meeting the FAA requirements for this endorsement, CAP pilots must demonstrate proficiency on a Form 5 to operate high performance CAP airplanes.

  • Turbo Endorsement
    Required for pilots operating turbocharged CAP airplanes. CAP pilots must complete both ground and flight training specific to the operation of CAP turbocharged engines.

  • G1000 VFR/IFR Endorsement
    Pilots flying CAP aircraft equipped with the Garmin G1000 system must complete CAP-specific training for either VFR or IFR operations. Ground and flight training are required for these endorsements.

  • Tow Pilot Endorsement
    For pilots towing CAP gliders, an FAA Tow Pilot Endorsement is required, in addition to CAP-specific ground and flight training.

  • Mountain Flying Endorsement
    CAP pilots flying in mountainous terrain must complete this endorsement, which includes specific training on high-altitude operations, emergency procedures, and terrain awareness.

For a detailed overview of these endorsements and the training required, refer to the 71-series CAP Standards, available through the CAP Publication Library. The CAP eLearning Platform also contains several trainings that supplement CAP Endorsements.

By pursuing these qualifications and endorsements, CAP pilots can enhance their capabilities, contribute more fully to CAP missions, and take on greater responsibilities within the organization. Each qualification and endorsement has specific training requirements, and you can consult with your CAP Pilot Mentor or your unit's Standardization/Evaluation Officer (DOV) for guidance on navigating the process.

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