Flying
Experience the thrill of flight and discover the world from above through our comprehensive flying program.
Take to the Skies
Flying is at the heart of the Air Cadet experience. At 485 Squadron, we provide numerous opportunities for cadets to experience powered flight and gliding under the guidance of experienced flight instructors, many of whom are ex-military pilots. From your first time in the air to potentially earning scholarships toward pilot licenses, the cadet aviation syllabus opens doors to aviation careers and creates unforgettable experiences.
Whether you're dreaming of a career as a pilot or simply curious about aviation, our flying activities offer hands-on experience with aircraft controls, principles of flight, and airmanship. These experiences build confidence, spatial awareness, and decision-making skills that benefit cadets in many aspects of life.
Our Flying Program
Experience flying in the Grob Tutor aircraft with RAF pilots. Take the controls under supervision and feel the thrill of controlling an aircraft in flight.
Experience gliding at RAF Gliding Schools, where you'll learn the fundamentals of unpowered flight and work towards your gliding wings.
Cadets can apply for scholarships offering up to 12 hours of flying training, and potentially even full Private Pilot License training.
Learn principles of flight, aircraft systems, meteorology, and air law through structured ground training that supplements your practical flying experiences.
Experience basic aerobatic maneuvers during Air Experience Flights, including loops and rolls that demonstrate the principles of aerodynamics in action.
Comprehensive training in aircraft safety procedures, emergency protocols, and airmanship principles that form the foundation of safe flying practices.
Flying Gallery
Grob Tutor
The primary aircraft used for Air Experience Flights, providing cadets with their first taste of powered flight.
Hands-On Experience
Cadets get to take the controls during flights, experiencing firsthand what it's like to pilot an aircraft.
Gliding Training
Gliding provides a unique flying experience and teaches cadets the fundamentals of unpowered flight.
Flying Achievements
Flying Badges
- Blue Flying Wings (First Flight)
- Bronze Flying Wings (Basic Handling)
- Silver Flying Wings (Advanced Skills)
- Gold Flying Wings (Exceptional Achievement)
Gliding Badges
- Blue Gliding Wings (First Glider Flight)
- Bronze Gliding Wings (Launch & Recovery)
- Silver Gliding Wings (Circuit Planning)
- Gold Gliding Wings (Solo Standard)
Cadet Experiences
“Gliding with the RAFAC was such a unique opportunity and an amazing experience. The thrill of being in the air was unlike anything I’d experienced before. It’s something I’ll always remember and has definitely made me more interested in aviation.”
Corporal Ghazy
485 Squadron
“Before joining the Air Cadets, I had never been in a Tutor aircraft before, let alone flown a plane at all. Joining 485 Squadron allowed me to experience new opportunities in flying and helped me build confidence with practical aviation skills.”
Cadet McCann
485 Squadron
Ready to Take Flight?
Join 485 Squadron and experience the thrill of flying as part of your cadet journey.