Over the May Long Weekend cadets from 279 Elk Valley Squadron (Saturday) and 552 Key City Cranbrook Squadron (Sunday) took to the skies in the Air Cadet Glider and Tow Plane for a day of familiarization flying and gliding at Canadian Rockies International Airport.

This was the first gliding opportunity since May 2019. Every cadet received at least a flight in the glider or the tow aircraft and a few lucky cadets had both opportunities.

On average, cadets will have about 12 minutes in the glider. Air traffic and weather systems affect the number of flights available; safety is always a priority.

We really appreciate the support received from Canadian Rockies International Airport

Warrant Officer K. Rawles from 279 Squadron earned her Glider Wings in August 2022. She was working with both squadrons this weekend and when asked how it feels, her reply was: “Getting my glider pilots license was the best thing I have ever done. Achieving my wings, post-COVID-19, has been my greatest accomplishment. The most rewarding part is being able to share my skills and experiences with other cadets who share similar interests and applying these skills both in and out of cadets.”

Sgt. Bell said, “It was amazing, the view was astonishing, and the flight was extremely smooth.”

He was the first cadet to go up in the glider on Sunday.

Lead image: WO2 Rawles is ensuring Sgt Bell is buckled up and briefed before the flight. Photos submitted

279 Elk Valley Squadron and 552 Key City Cranbrook Squadron

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