The Air Cadet Organization

The Air Cadet Organization (ACO) is a national youth organization sponsored by the Royal Air Force in the UK. Membership is open to young people aged between 13 and 20 years, inclusive.

The ACO comprises:     Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet Force (RAF)

The ATC and CCF(RAF) share many similarities but there are a number of differences in structure, training programmes, recruitment etc.

The Aims of the Air Cadet Organization are: To promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force. To provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life. To foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship.

The "Air Cadets" provides the opportunity for members to take part in a huge and diverse range of exciting and challenging activities. Many are organized at National and Regional level, many others take place locally at Wing and Squadron levels.

If your interest is in Flying, Sports, Adventure Training, Camping, Engineering, Shooting, Drill, Music, Watersports, Abseiling, Overseas Travel these are just some of the activities provided by the ATC.

Many of the competitive elements could see you competing at local, national and international levels. There is also a very important social aspect too - you will get to meet and make new friends.

The ACO develops personal qualities and a sense of community and citizenship valued by employers, both military and civil.

A very large percentage of serving members of the Royal Air Force were air cadets. Although the ACO is not a recruiting organization, 41% of Officer and 51% of all Aircrew (including pilots, navigators, air electronics operators, air engineers and air loadmasters) recruits into the Royal Air Force are ex-air cadets. If you are looking for a Service career, membership will help give you a head start. Research has shown that ex-cadets do better in basic training and stay in the Service longer than their colleagues without the benefit of cadet membership.

The greater success rates and contribution towards recruitment, along with the personnel support role (eg at airshows etc) save the Royal Air Force an estimated £11.1m per year.