Webguy's Blog

Airfield Friday

• 5 Jun. 2026
• USAFA
• Web Guy

Welcome to Airfield Fridays!

Every Friday we will be posting footage from the Davis Airfield. Some weeks will be more information, some will be less information. (Weather depending)

Here's some background information on the Soaring Program:

The Summer Basic Soaring Program, Airmanship 251, is intended for rising sophomores and serves as a key component of the Academy experience. The course provides cadets with at least 10 glider flights, during which they learn fundamental flight operations.

First and second-class cadets are given the opportunity to continue their training by stepping into leadership opportunities for the Instructor Pilots (IPs). This part of the program includes training with the gliders in a year-long solo program, increasing both their experience as a pilot and their credentials as a cadet. 

The soaring program provides character and leadership development and is the first step for many who wish to become future pilots in the Air Force.

Here's some background information on the Jump program:

The Summer Jump Program, Airmanship 490, is the only program in the world where the first jump is an unassisted freefall.

Prior to their first jump, cadet are required to complete 40 hours of ground training. This includes training at a local facility called "IFly" where they practice freefalling as well as equipment practice at the Ground Training Facility on base at USAFA. 

The successful completion of 5 jumps at 5,000 feet results in award of the Air Force basic parachutist badge "jump wings" which they can wear the rest of their Air Force career.  

Here is some background information on Powered Flight program: 

The Powered Flight Program contributes to the Academy’s mission of cultivating leaders of character and quality and upholds the core values of integrity, service, and excellence.

Cadets can participate in powered flight during their second-class year or during the summer before their first-class year. Cadets receive training in precision landings, cross-country navigation, instrument flying and more. 

The cadets fly the Cirrus T53 aircraft at Davis Airfield. Cadets fly 5-10 flights before they make their solo trip.

This year the solo program will take place the first summer period. Cadets are matched with experienced instructor pilots who teach them the fundamentals of flight. As they advance through the program, they take on increasing levels of responsibility, ultimately performing a takeoff and landing on their own to complete a solo flight without assistance. This solo flight marks a significant milestone in a cadet’s flight training experience at the Academy.