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 training.
Build friendships while developing leadership and communications skills through our teams, activities and summer training opportunities.
How do I get started?
Complete the online registration
To become enrolled as a cadet with our squadron, you’ll need to complete the online enrolment registration form.1 Registration is completed online only by a parent or legal guardian, unless the you are over the age of 18.
Please ensure you have the following items or information when completing the form:
- Applicant’s name, date of birth, email, phone number and address
- Health insurance information (either provincial, federal or private)
- Legal limitations, obligations and conditions (if applicable)
- Parents’/guardians’ name, email, phone number(s) and address (and access rights, if applicable)
- Health information and restrictions (if applicable)
Visit in person and learn more
To visit in person, contact us anytime at 246air@cadets.gc.ca to schedule a mutually convenient time. When you come, please bring:
- An original and photocopy of your birth certificate or Canadian passport or valid resident card
- An original and photocopy of your Ontario Health Card
- One or both of your parents/guardians
1If English is not your first language and you’re unsure whether you’ll be able to understand the paperwork, please engage someone you trust who can help. If you come to our Squadron for support, please bring that person with you and Squadron staff will try to assist with any language difficulties.
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?
While the core program and uniforms are free, there are occasional minor expenses for personal maintenance and optional activities:
- Supplies: Cadets are responsible for small personal items like boot polish and hair accessories
- Socials: Nominal fees may apply for optional events like dances or movie nights
- Optional trips: For larger excursions (such as March Break trips), a supplementary fee may be requested depending on the location and the year's fundraising success
Note: Financial accommodations are always available for these extra costs. No cadet is ever excluded from an activity due to an inability to pay.
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.
