Aviation Organizations

You do not have to wait until you are 17 to start your aviation journey. Two organizations — Aviation Exploring and the Civil Air Patrol — offer young people hands-on aviation experience right now. This requirement asks you to find one (or both) in your area and learn what they do.

Aviation Exploring

Exploring is a career-focused program run by Learning for Life, an affiliate of Scouting America. An Aviation Exploring post connects young people with professional pilots, mechanics, and aviation businesses for real-world exposure to the field.

What Aviation Exploring posts do:

• Tour airports, control towers, maintenance facilities, and aviation museums
• Attend air shows and fly-ins
• Experience introductory and discovery flights
• Learn about career paths from working aviation professionals
• Some posts offer ground school instruction and even discounted flight training

Membership requirements:

• Ages 14–20 (or 13 if you have completed 8th grade)
• Open to all youth regardless of Scouting membership
• Annual membership fee (varies by post)
• Must complete an Exploring application

How to find a post:

• Visit the Exploring website and search for posts in your area with an “Aviation” career focus
• Ask your local council’s Exploring coordinator
• Contact nearby flight schools or FBOs — some sponsor or host Exploring posts

Civil Air Patrol (CAP)

The Civil Air Patrol is the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Its cadet program is one of the best pathways into aviation for young people. CAP cadets participate in real-world missions, earn flight time, and can even earn pilot certificates through the program.

What CAP cadets do:

• Fly in CAP aircraft with certified CAP pilots (orientation flights)
• Participate in search and rescue missions as ground team members
• Attend encampments — week-long immersive programs at military bases
• Earn promotions through a structured achievement program covering leadership, aerospace education, fitness, and character
• Compete for flight scholarships — CAP awards powered flight and glider scholarships that can cover much of the cost of earning a private pilot certificate
• Participate in the International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE), visiting other countries to learn about their air forces

Membership requirements:

• Cadet membership: Ages 12–18
• Senior membership: Ages 18 and older (mentors, pilots, mission staff)
• Membership dues (approximately $45/year for cadets, depending on the unit)
• Must complete an online application and attend local squadron meetings

How to find a CAP squadron:

• Visit the CAP website and use the unit locator to find squadrons near you
• Many squadrons meet at local airports or community centers, usually one evening per week

Which One Should You Join?

Both organizations offer tremendous value. Here is a quick comparison:

You can be a member of both at the same time, and both count toward your aviation experience.