LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Civil Air Patrol cadets from across the country convened at the 47th Flying Training Wing to experience firsthand the Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) mission, and what it takes to become a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, July 29 - Aug. 2, 2024.
“CAP is an important part of our communities as the program develops our youth through aerospace education and activities,” said Col. Tyler Ellison, 47th Flying Training Wing commander. “We hope the CAP cadets gained valuable insights during their time at Laughlin and the interactions with Team XL inspired the cadets to pursue careers in the Air Force. Our team is looking to build upon on this year’s success and pursue opportunities of bringing a CAP squadron back to the Del Rio community to enhance aviation opportunities for the local youth.”
The top 30 performing cadets out of 250 applicants were selected to attend.
“This [tour] is important as it will inspire the younger generation and answer questions and give them a glimpse into the life of an undergraduate pilot training student and other career field members at Laughlin,” said Capt. Nathan Courtaney, 434th Flying Training Squadron, assistant flight commander.
The week-long event kicked off with a visit to aircrew flight equipment (AFE), where cadets were fitted with their own flight suit and learned about the important gear pilots rely on for safety.
Next stop for the cadets was the flight simulator complex where they flew simulated T-6A Texan IIs and T-38C Talons.
Flying the T-6 with the virtual reality headset put cadets in a simulated cockpit, allowing for a 360-degree view from the aircraft during flight.
They also experienced flying in a T-38 cockpit replica, with better visuals on the proper placement of the controls and safety features.
Flight suits fitted, simulators flown, all that was left was what the cadets were most excited for, T-38 and T-1A Jayhawk incentive flights.
“Flying in the T-38 was my favorite part,” said Emma Martin, CAP cadet. “We got to go super-fast and do different tricks in the air.”
“The opportunity to fly in a military aircraft as a [teen] is a once in a lifetime chance,” said Courtaney.
As the week came to a close, cadets had the chance to experience their own simulated “drop night” to find out what aircraft they would fly. This night was a great chance for the cadets to feel the same excitement that student pilots experience as they finish UPT and move to their first flying assignment.
Suspense filled the room as the cadets' names were called and their selected aircraft was announced; excitement roared for each cadets’ simulated assignment as either a fighter, bomber or attack class aircraft was announced.
CAP squadrons and cadets have visited Laughlin for more than 30 years, historically offering partnership to the Air Force and community engagement opportunities.
Events like this weeklong tour inspire cadets to pursue careers as pilots and a multitude of other career fields in the Air Force, effectively supporting recruiting efforts.