Soaring
The Basic Soaring program (Airmanship 251) provides a motivational experience for all 3rd class cadets. This program is the largest Glider operation in the world and its mission is to build character, and help motivate cadets as well as form the foundation of cadet exposure to military aviation, which is what many of them will do in their Air Force careers following their 4 years at the Academy. The cadets first experience soaring in the TG-10B or TG-16A which familiarizes them with aircraft controls, the ever-present crew checklists, area/pattern work, and the perspective to earth.
Cadets at Soaring were making their way through their 4 Flights when we stopped by this past week. Though with low ceiling clouds and continuous bad weather we weren't able to catch every Cadet. We do hope that most if not all were able to get all of the flights they needed during B Go!
Once they have completed and passed these accompanied flights, they are able to go for their solo/acro flight. Taking summer Soaring will also make them eligible for AM 461, the Cadet Instructor Pilot Upgrade program which they would take their Sophomore year to become a Soaring IP.
To view the rest of our glimpse into B Go for Soaring go to; Galleries - Airmanship - Soaring. Or click the link below.