Civil Air Patrol Ends Glider Program

[Sean Franke]

In a recent year, Civil Air Patrol introduced 1,895 cadets to glider flight—likely the largest youth glider exposure program in the United States. Even so, the number was still not enough to sustain the program long term, according to CAP. Ending it is a loss for gliding and for young people who might have found their passion in soaring.

https://avweb.com/aviation-news/civil-air-patrol-ends-glider-program/

[John DeRosa]

I had caught wind of this from my club's CAP members and instructors.  Sad news.

- John (OHM)

[Michael Fadden]

Years ago I was an "Orientation Pilot" . Each cadet was supposed to get 5  O flights (according to the syllabus) but I don't think I ever had the same cadet twice. Still, I really enjoyed introducing these kids to actual flying. Most were from underprivileged neighborhoods and had never been in an kind of aircraft. I'd be hard pressed to say who had the better experience, them or me. It a shame its come to an end.  

Mike 

[Randy Auburg]

This is understandable but really sad. I was selected for the 1967 National Glider Academy in Reno, Nevada. In those days it was a two week academy. We soloed the first week and got our license during the second week. We even got a couple of flights in a 1-26.  I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do when I grew up, and still am, and that encampment gave me a direction for my life. I have had some layoffs over the years but have been able to instruct and tow for several clubs and commercial operators. The CAP let me pay it forward instructing and towing at several academies and cadet "O flight" weekends. Private Pilot academy's were a thing of the past and we used to be able to solo cadets at their first academy after 30 dual flights. That rule changed to not allowing solo flight at a cadet's first academy. The academy's were a lot of fun. Cadets ran the line and it was amazing to see how quickly they learned ground ops, flying, and weather. Cadets quickly  matured, bonded, and supported each other. It is unfortunate that the program has closed.

Randy Auburg