Orientation Pilot
Becoming a CAP Orientation Pilot allows you to introduce cadets to the world of aviation through hands-on flight experiences. There are three types of CAP Orientation Pilot appointments:
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Orientation Pilot - Airplane
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Orientation Pilot - ROTC
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Orientation Pilot - Glider
Each appointment provides you with a unique opportunity to inspire future aviators while ensuring safety and educational value throughout the flights.
General Requirements for All Orientation Pilots
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Be a qualified CAP VFR Pilot (or CAP Glider Pilot for Glider Orientation Pilots) with a current CAPF 5 flight evaluation containing a Orientation Pilot Endorsement.
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Successfully pass the appropriate Orientation Pilot Exam, which covers safety and program objectives, located on the CAP eLearning Platform. There are three separate exams a member can take
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Schedule a flight with a CAP Check Pilot to obtain the appropriate Orientation Pilot Endorsement.
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Obtain an appointment from your Wing Commander or their designee as an Orientation Pilot in Ops Quals.
Orientation Pilot - Airplane and ROTC
As a CAP Powered Orientation Pilot, you will conduct powered flights for CAP cadets and AFROTC/AFJROTC cadets, helping them explore aviation in a safe and structured manner.
In addition to the General Requirements, CAP Pilots seeking the Orientation Pilot - Airplane appointment, which enables you to fly CAP Cadets, also must have at least 200 hours of Pilot-in-Command (PIC) flight time in fixed-wing airplanes.
To obtain the Orientation Pilot - ROTC appointment, CAP Pilots must have at least 300 hours of PIC flight time in fixed-wing airplanes.
In the CAP elearning Platform, there are two exams available for CAP Pilots seeking these endorsements:
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Cadet Orientation Pilot Exam - CAP & ROTC Endorsement: This exam should be taken by CAP Pilots who intend on flying both CAP Cadets and ROTC Cadets and will count towards both exam requirements.
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Cadet Orientation Pilot Exam - CAP Endorsement Only: This exam should be taken by CAP Pilots who intend on only flying CAP Cadets. If a CAP Pilot opts to take this exam, and then later decides to seek an Orientation Pilot - ROTC appointment, they will need to take the Cadet Orientation Pilot Exam - CAP & ROTC Endorsement at that time to meet the requirements for the ROTC appointment.
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Both exams expire after 48 calendar months.
Orientation Pilot - Glider
As a Glider Orientation Pilot, you will introduce cadets to non-powered flight through educational glider experiences.
In addition to the General Requirements, CAP Pilots seeking the Orientation Pilot - Glider appointment, must hold a valid FAA Glider Commercial Pilot Certificate or have completed at least 100 glider flights.
CAP Glider Pilots must also complete the Cadet Orientation Pilot Exam - Glider, prior to seeking an appointment. This exam expires after 48 calendar months.
Responsibilities of Orientation Pilots
ALL Orientation Pilots must:
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Follow the appropriate syllabus for conducting the orientation flights. For CAP Cadets, CAPP 60-40, Cadet Orientation Flight Program Syllabus, outlines lesson plans and safety protocols for orientation flights of CAP Cadets in airplanes and gliders. For ROTC Cadets, their program is governed by the AFROTC/AFJROTC Operations Plan, which can be found on the Operations Plans (OPlan) site.
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Ensure safety and maintain compliance with CAP’s flight management regulations and standards during every orientation flight.
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Stay current with CAPF 5 evaluations and maintain orientation pilot endorsements.
Guidance on Evaluation Areas for CAP Orientation Pilot Appointments
The following criteria should be considered and used by Wings to determine when to make these appointments:
Evaluation Areas for CAP Orientation Pilot Appointments |
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Evaluation Area |
Items to Evaluate |
Expanded Commentary |
Flight Experience, Safety Record and CAP Program Knowledge |
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Flight experience, safety record, and CAP program knowledge are essential for cadet orientation pilots. Evaluate total flight hours, clean safety history, CAP mission experience, relevant training, and understanding of CAP's mission and cadet programs. |
Interpersonal Skills |
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Interpersonal skills for cadet orientation pilots include clear, engaging communication, effective teaching, and professionalism. These skills ensure positive interactions with cadets and team members, fostering a supportive learning environment and efficient operations. |
Commitment to CAP Values |
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Commitment to CAP values involves embodying integrity, volunteer service, excellence, and respect. It includes active participation, effective mentorship, leadership, and a strong focus on safety, ensuring pilots serve as positive role models for cadets. |