In a significant step towards greater collaboration, The Air League and Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing educational outreach programmes and inspiring the next generation of talent for the aviation, aerospace, and space industries.
The partnership will promote opportunities available to Air Cadets through The Air League, including its popular Soaring to Success programme, as well as flying and gliding scholarships and bursaries. The MOU also facilitates closer ties between Air Training Corps (ATC) Squadrons, RAF Contingents of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF (RAF)), Volunteer Gliding Squadrons (VGS), and the Air League.
The signing took place at the RAF Air Cadets Honours & Awards ceremony held at RAF College Cranwell. The event was attended by key representatives, including Air League President, Air Marshal Sir Chris Harper KBE, and former Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Tony Keeling OBE. This MOU establishes a framework for joint initiatives that will expand training opportunities, promote aviation careers, and increase outreach to young people across the UK.
Air Marshal Sir Chris Harper KBEhighlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This MOU demonstrates our commitment to nurturing young talent and igniting a passion for aviation. By joining forces, we can offer invaluable experiences and resources that equip the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to succeed in these dynamic industries.”
Air Commodore Tony Keeling OBE added that this MOU was particularly meaningful, as it was one of his final official duties before transitioning leadership of the RAF Air Cadets to Air Commodore Al Lewis. He remarked, “We are proud to formalise this historic relationship, which dates back to the early years of the Air Cadets in the 1940s, and even earlier for the Combined Cadet Force. This renewed partnership between the Air League and RAFAC is set to make a lasting impact, helping countless young people raise their aspirations and reach for the skies.”
The RAF Air Cadets offer young people exciting opportunities for personal and professional development, helping young people reach their potential. Every year nearly 43,000 air cadets and 10,000 volunteer staff take part in exciting events at over 1,000 squadrons across the UK.
