Induction Course

The Starting point for your gliding experience will be at 625 Volunteer Gliding Squadron (VGS) which flies Viking winch launch gliders. You will begin by attending, with others from 878 Sqn, your affiliated VGS to be taught the Gliding Induction Course (GIC).

The GIC has been designed to give you a taste for Air Cadet Gliding and consists of 3 different levels of instruction. You will be shown various aspects of aerodynamics that you will have been taught in the classroom before being taught the ”effects of controls” in the air. You will have the opportunity to take control and practice what you have learned. On your first visit you will be taught the GIC 1 and your subsequent visits you will progress to GIC 2 and 3.

For cadets showing the required aptitude, there may be the opportunity to progress further and possibly reach the solo standard. Should you manage this and successfully complete a solo circuit you will be entitled to wear the Silver GS wings. For some if they are invited, or apply and are accepted, to become Flight Staff Cadets there will be further training. These cadets will be trained to a much higher level and again, if successful, cadets will be entitled to wear the Gold wings denoting AGT or Advanced Glider Training.

Air Cadets have the opportunity to fly with Royal Air Force pilots in Tutor aircraft. Flying takes place at one of 12 Air Experience Flights (AEFs) where cadets are shown how the aircraft flies and given the chance to control the aeroplane, experience aerobatics or simply admire the view. All Air Cadets get the opportunity to fly with the AEF each year.

The ACO has had the benefit of powered aircraft since 1957 with the introduction of venerable DeHavilland Chipmunk aeroplanes which were replaced by the Bulldog in 1996. The latest replacement - Grob Tutor - recently entered AEF service, replacing the Bulldog.

The Tutors are provided by a contractor, Bombardier Aerospace Defence Services, and the MoD, buys flying hours. The AEF task is based on 25 minutes per cadet per year, plus an allowance for staff continuation training, etc. AEF aircraft are flown by volunteer pilots, all of whom are current or former service pilots.