CAP REQUIREMENTS:

CAP has some pretty stringent requirements before individuals can fly its aircraft.

You can join the organization and go through the aircrew training process as follows:

Complete the CAP Orientation Course, Cadet Protection Program Training, and Operations Security Briefing (total of about 4 hours at the airfield)

Complete the General Emergency Services courses 116 & 117 online (usually can be done in about an hour)

Participate in a face-to-face orientation to qualify for Mission Scanner (fly’s in the rear of aircraft to assist with observation & occasionally operate equipment)

Complete two training flights to qualify for Mission Scanner

Participate in a face-to-face orientation to qualify for Mission Observer (fly’s in the right front seat, operates radios, navigates & observes)

Complete four training flights to qualify for Mission Observer

Participate in three face-to-face orientations to qualify for Mission Pilot

Complete four training flights

Complete an oral flight examination

Complete a qualification flight

Provide proof of a flight physical

Receive award of the designation: Mission Pilot

As you can imagine, many experienced pilots are unwilling to go through the above process, citing the desire to merely fly airplanes.

As a result of US Air Force regulations CAP parent organization) we are required to maximize safety at all costs, therefore training mandates are tough.

Robert A. McManus