The Royal Canadian Air Cadets is a member of the Canadian Cadet Organization, which is the largest youth organization in Canada. The Royal Canadian Air Cadets is the largest of the 3 programs offered with over 23,000 Air Cadets nation wide.

The first Air Cadet Squadrons were started in 1941 to train young men for the war. Now, Air Cadets has evolved into the largest youth leadership program in Canada. The program has aims of promoting leadership, citizenship and physical fitness while stimulating an interest in the air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces.

You can also read more about the Cadets Canada program here.

Cadets is open to youth between the ages 12 to 18. Its not too late to join!

You must be 12 years old (or older) AT the time of your registration

Proof of Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Resident status is required. Read more about what documents are required in the “How do I Join” section below!

Cadets runs during the school year (September - June). We observe the same holidays and breaks as SD36.

767 Training nights are Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30pm at Simon Cunningham Elementary School

Being a cadet helps you learn and develop lifelong skills like leadership, public speaking, teamwork, project management, professionalism, dedication, problem solving, and more. Throughout the program, you also meet many amazing people and foster lifelong friendships!

Some exclusive benefits of air cadets include the opportunity to receive free Theory of Flight training and the potential to earn your own glider and/or private power flying licenses. Even if you don’t want to get a pilot’s license, you can also have the opportunity to experience flying in a glider or a Cessna aircraft above the Lower Mainland!

Cadets also has summer camp activities, where you can participate in courses and training about sports, music, leadership, aviation, aerospace technology, survival, and more!

Additionally, you can receive up to 22 High School Credits by being in cadets!

Cadets is a FREE PROGRAM!

However, it does cost a lot of money to keep things running, and to ensure that we can provide you with the best cadet experience possible.

We sincerely ask all cadets to provide an annual donation to the squadron when they join, or when they return to parade in September.

These funds help the squadron pay for things like insurance, facility rentals, excursions, sporting events, weekend retreats, parties, and more!

You can learn more about donations and funding here.