In addition to flying cadets can also undertake elementary flying training at one of 28 Volunteer Gliding Squadrons (VGS) around the UK. The gliders flown are centrally owned and operated by the Royal Air Force and the aircraft vary on the location of gliding Squadrons. Instructional staff vary from RAF VR(T) officers, regulars, reservists, Civilian Instructors to senior cadets. The collective 28 Volunteer Gliding Squadrons along with the central Air Cadet Central Gliding School form the largest gliding organisation in the world. Cadets begin their experience of gliding with three one day Gliding Inductions Courses (GIC) at levels 1,2 and 3. Each GIC level teaches and demonstrates to cadets core flying skills required to eventually fly solo. A VGS will either operate the winch-launched Grob Viking glider or the Grob Vigilant self launched motor-glider.

494 Sqn’s VGS is 614 Sqn based at Ministry of Defence Police Wethersfield, an ex USAF base. 614 Sqn operate 7 Grob Viking gliders. Cadets over the age of 16 can also apply for a Gliding Scholarship and aim for that first solo flight. Cadets are awarded Blue Wings for completing the course and Silver Wings if they complete a solo launch. Some cadets who show aptitude and ability achieve Silver Wing’s stay on as staff cadets and assist in the running of the gliding Squadron in addition to their regular cadet duties. Cadets can them progress onto achieve Gold Wings and become a gliding instructor.

To visit the website of 614 VGS please click here.