Join
Due to COVID-19 there will be modifications to the 2021/2022 training year. Check the squadron calendar to stay up to date.
Join Canada’s best youth organization! Air cadets enjoy a wide range of activities like power flying and gliding, marksmanship, and survival camps.
Build friendships while developing leadership and communications skills through our teams, activities and summer training opportunities.
Why should I become a cadet?
Youth become cadets for a number of reasons, including to:
- have fun;
- be with friends or make new ones;
- learn valuable life skills (professional and personal);
- improve self-confidence and sense of responsibility; and/or
- pursue an interest in aviation and/or the Canadian Armed Forces.
How do I get started?
To join our squadron, contact us anytime at 246air@cadets.gc.ca. Here’s what will happen next:
- A squadron staff member will answer your initial questions about the program.
- You will be invited to join an upcoming training night to learn more. The new recruits section on the Uniforms page outlines what you should wear on this visit!
- A designate will meet you onsite and provide an orientation to the program.
- If you decide to join, parents or legal guardians should complete the Government of Canada’s online application as a first step.
Completing the enrollment package
In order to become enrolled as a cadet with our squadron, you will need to complete an enrollment package.* Packages are provided in-person only, and a parent or legal guardian must be present.
Please ensure you have the following items or information when completing your package:
- one parent/legal guardian
- name, phone number(s), address of parents/guardians
- name, phone number(s), address of an emergency contact person (someone who does not live at your house)
- name, phone number, address of your family doctor
- original and photocopy of birth certificate or Canadian passport or valid resident card
- original and photocopy of Ontario health card
- $125.00** payable by e-transfer to finance@246aircadets.com or cheque made out to the Squadron Sponsoring Committee to cover program fees
*If English is not your first language and you’re unsure whether you’ll be able to understand the paperwork, please bring someone with you who can help. Squadron staff will try to assist with any language difficulties.
**No one will be turned away or denied entry into the Cadet Program for financial reasons. If you require financial accommodation or would like to discuss program fees, please contact our Sponsoring Committee Chair or Commanding Officer. All inquiries will be held in the strictest confidence.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be to join?
You are eligible to join an air cadets squadron if you have reached your 12th birthday. You can remain a member until your 19th birthday.
What costs are involved?
Upon enrollment with our squadron and each subsequent September, a fee of $125 is collected from each cadet to cover your registration with the Air Cadet League of Canada. The cadet uniform is provided on loan, free of charge.
In order to keep our annual fee low for everyone, all cadets are expected to participate in squadron fundraising activities throughout the year.
If I join the cadets, will I be joining the Canadian Armed Forces?
Cadets are not part of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) but are taught by CAF members. The Air Cadet Program is a community-based program where the Government of Canada invests in today’s youth and Canada’s future.
What are the membership requirements?
All potential cadets must be of good character, interested in the program and prepared to attend training nights on a regular basis. You must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Permission from your parent or guardian is also required.
Who instructs us?
Air cadets are primarily taught and led by other senior cadets. Additionally, the program is facilitated and instructed by officers of the Cadet Instructors Cadre, a component of the Canadian Armed Forces who are specially trained to instruct and supervise youth. Civilian Volunteers (CVs) such as ex-Servicemen, school teachers, former Air Cadets and other persons willing to devote time to this activity are also active in the air cadet program. Learn more about the 246 team.
How often do we train?
You will train with your squadron every Tuesday night. Air cadets also participate in occasional day trips and overnight weekend training. Visit the Training section to learn more about these opportunities.
How often do we fly?
Generally, our squadron goes gliding once a year and power flying twice a year.
Are there any extracurricular activities?
Our squadron offers additional optional training in Drill, Marksmanship, Effective Speaking, Debating and Orienteering. There is also Ground School for cadets who are interested in applying for flying scholarships. The teams meet weekly in addition to training nights. They also participate in occasional weekend practices and competitions.
Do I have to buy my own uniform?
No. Complete uniforms are loaned to cadets by the Canadian Forces. You are, of course, expected to keep the uniform looking clean and neat and return them when you leave the squadron.
Do I get paid to be an air cadet?
Cadets do not get paid. They do receive a training bonus when they go on summer training.
What about pilot training?
Air cadets who pass the required medical and written examinations can qualify for aircraft and glider pilot scholarship courses conducted at flying clubs, schools and special camps across Canada. Visit the Summer Training page for more information.
