If you heard several planes flying over Trail last Saturday, it could have been 17 cadets of 531 City of Trail squadron experiencing the thrill of flight.
The cadets were flown by Rupert Robin in his SR22, Civilian Instructor Mark Mozel flying the Nelson Pilots Associations Cessna 177 and Major Kevn DeBiasio flying the Trail Flying Clubs Cessna 172.
After learning about the aircraft, the cadets took off from the Trail Regional Airport and then flew over Castlegar, Nelson and Salmo.
Over the next several months there are many engaging activities planned for the cadets of 531.
They will be attending a sports day in Castlegar, flying in both powered aircraft and gliders and attending an outdoor weekend.
Cadets will also be competing in Effective Speaking, Marksmanship and Running Biathlon competitions.
The squadron welcomes new cadets, between the ages of 12 and 18, at any time.
The squadron meets once per week on Wednesday evenings at the Kemball Armoury in Shaver's Bench.
Other activities take place on select weekends during the year.
Adults who would like to volunteer with the squadron are also welcome.
During the summer, senior cadets can attend training at locations across the country.
Moreover, cadets can receive high school credits for completing their training.
The Royal Canadian Air Cadets, in partnership with the Air Cadet League of Canada and the Department of National Defence has been training youth in Canada since 1941.
The Cadet program, which includes Sea, Army and Air Cadets, is the largest government funded youth program in Canada with over 50,000 participants across Canada.
The Royal Canadian Air Cadets accepts youth between the ages of 12-18 who have a desire to learn more about the air element of the Canadian Forces, wish to develop the attributes of leadership and good citizenship and who wish to promote physical fitness.
While the program is military based, there is no obligation for a cadet to join the Canadian Armed Forces when they finish their cadet career.
