What is the Air Training Corps

The Air Training Corps (ATC) is part of the Air Cadet Organization (ACO) which also includes Royal Air Force (RAF) sections of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). The ATC is a voluntary youth organisation supported by the RAF.

With approximatley 53,000 members aged from 13 to 20 years and over 1,000 Squadrons, the ATC is one of the country's highly established youth organisations. It is by far the world's largest youth air training organisation. The cadets are supported by volunteer staff of nearly 10,000 with an additional 5,000 Civilian Committee members.

The Air Training Corps is the largest operator of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme and perhaps its not surprising when you learn that HRH Prince Philip is the ATC's Commodore-in-Chief. HRH Prince Philip takes a keen interest in the organisation and all of its members.

'Air Cadets' get the opportunity of flying in RAF and commercial aircraft - many progressing to achieve Flying Scholarships and their Private Pilots Licence (PPL). The Corps has charitable status and is not a recruiting organisation for the RAF although many members do go on to have careers within the RAF, other Services or civilian life. At time of this print, approximately 50% of all aircrew (pilots, navigators and NCO aircrew) and 40% of Officers are ex-cadets.

VISION

To ensure the ACO continues to flourish and to remain true to the ideals laid down in its charter, especially the provision of adequate and other challenging activities.

MISSION

In a constantly changing society, the mission of the ATC is to uphold a vibrant and worthwhile ACO supported by trained and commited staff.

AIMS

The aims of the ACO are clear, demonstrating the ideals of producing enthusiastic and thoughtful young men and women who will strive to achieve in whatever walk of life they choose.

The three fundamental aims are:

To promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the RAF

To provide training which will be useful in both the services and civilian life

To foster the spirit of adventure and to help develop the qualities of leadership and citizenship