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Senior Program

Adult Members are formally referred to as Senior Members. You have to be at least 18 years old to become a Senior Member.

FLYING (Pilots Only):  To fly a CAP aircraft you need to be checked out by a CAP Check Pilot.   Once checked out, you can use our aircraft for proficiency flying.  CAP also have Instructor Pilots that will fly with you and get you ready for the check ride. 

FLYING (Pilots and Non-Pilots):  There are a variety of flying, or aircrew roles, for pilots and non-pilots alike.  Pilots and non-pilots usually start as a Mission Scanner, which is the aircrew member responsible for aerial searching and other related tasks.  Other non-rated aircrew jobs include Mission Observer and Airborne Photographer.  The Mission Observer operates radios, conducts visual and electronic searches, and may assist with navigation and mission planning.  Airborne Photography is an increasing role for CAP, often responsible for capture of disaster relief or other images from the air.  Pilots may train as Cadet Orientation Ride pilots, Transport Mission Pilots, or Mission Pilots.  Mountain flying requires additional training.

SQUADRON JOBS:  CAP depends entirely on volunteers to run the squadron.  Members are highly encouraged to take on squadron jobs, in addition to flying or other emergency services roles.  A wide variety of skills are needed: finance, information technology, teaching, public affairs, communications, administration, and more are all necessary and valued jobs.  Professional training and mentoring are offered to assist members learning squadron jobs.

EMERGENCY SERVICES:  Aside from squadron jobs, many members choose to participate in Civil Air Patrol’s emergency services program.  CAP conducts search & rescue missions, disaster relief, and other missions in support of national, state, and local governments.  Missions sometimes benefit other non-profit organizations such as American Red Cross or Salvation Army.  Performance of those missions typically requires significant mission staff in addition to aircrews and ground teams.  Mission base specialties accomplish oversight, planning, and support activities to ensure mission success.  Aircrews and ground teams should also be prepared to work in mission base jobs.

Regardless of the path you choose to pursue, we encourage all new members to work with a mentor within the squadron to help guide you through the necessary steps to make CAP a rewarding experience.

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