Parent & Cadet Glossary

Understanding Air Cadet Abbreviations, Ranks, Training & Terminology

New to Air Cadets? You may hear a LOT of abbreviations and terminology!

Don't worry — we've put together this quick reference to help cadets and parents understand the language used around the squadron.

Air Cadet Basics

RCAC — Royal Canadian Air Cadets
The Air Cadet element of the Canadian Cadet Program.

RCACS — Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
The formal designation for an Air Cadet Squadron.

Sqn — Squadron
For example, 83 Sqn means 83 Squadron.

Who Runs the Cadet Program?

CCO — Canadian Cadet Organizations
The three Cadet elements: Sea, Army and Air.

CJCR — Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers
The organization responsible for the Cadet Program and Junior Canadian Rangers.

RCSU — Regional Cadet Support Unit
The regional organization supporting cadet squadrons and corps.

CO — Commanding Officer
The officer responsible for the squadron.

CIC — Cadet Instructors Cadre
CAF officers who are specifically trained to support the Cadet Program.

CAF — Canadian Armed Forces

DND — Department of National Defence

Training

QSP — Qualification Standard and Plan
The document that outlines training and qualification requirements.

PO — Performance Objective
A specific training objective a cadet is expected to learn or demonstrate.

LDA — Locally Directed Activity
A local training activity conducted by the squadron.

ADA — Area Directed Activity
An area-level activity.

RDA — Regionally Directed Activity
A regional activity.

NDA — Nationally Directed Activity
A national-level activity.

CTC — Cadet Training Centre

CSTC — Cadet Summer Training Centre

Air Cadet Flying

ACFP — Air Cadet Flying Program

GPTC — Glider Pilot Training Course

PPTC — Power Pilot Training Course

Flying opportunities are competitive and have specific eligibility and selection requirements.

Administration

CoC — Chain of Command
The established structure for authority and communication.

POC — Point of Contact
The person responsible for answering questions or coordinating an activity.

OIC — Officer in Charge
The officer responsible for a particular activity.

HQ — Headquarters

NLT — No Later Than

ETA — Estimated Time of Arrival

ETD — Estimated Time of Departure

Cadet365 & Fortress

Cadet365
The Microsoft 365 environment used by the Cadet Program for authorized users.

Fortress
The Cadet Program's administrative information system.

Common Terms

Parade Night
The squadron's regular training evening. It may include drill, classroom training, physical activity, inspections, announcements, leadership training and other activities.

Flight
A group of Air Cadets organized together for training or parade purposes.

Fall In
Form up in the designated location.

Fall Out
Leave the formation when directed.

Drill
Standardized movements and commands used to develop teamwork, coordination, discipline and leadership.

Inspection
A formal review of cadets, uniforms, equipment or other items.

Deportment
A cadet's conduct, bearing, professionalism and general behaviour.

Staff Cadet
A cadet employed to assist with Cadet Program activities. Staff Cadets remain cadets and do not become members of the CAF.

Air Cadet Proficiency Levels

Air Cadets progress through five Proficiency Levels as they develop their knowledge, skills and experience. Each level builds on previous learning and provides opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork, citizenship, fitness and aviation knowledge.

Proficiency Level 1 — Introduction to Air Cadets

This is the starting level for new Air Cadets.

Cadets are introduced to the squadron, the Air Cadet Program and the expectations of being a cadet.

Training introduces:

  • The Cadet Program and squadron organization

  • Basic drill movements and commands

  • Uniform care and personal appearance

  • Teamwork, communication and citizenship

  • Introductory aviation and aerospace knowledge

  • Personal responsibility and participation

In simple terms: Cadets learn how the squadron operates, what is expected of them and the basic skills they will use throughout their cadet experience.

Proficiency Level 2 — Building Knowledge and Skills

Cadets build on the foundations learned during their first level.

Training develops greater confidence, understanding and participation in squadron activities.

Cadets continue developing:

  • Drill and ceremonial skills

  • Aviation and aerospace knowledge

  • Teamwork and communication

  • Citizenship and community involvement

  • Physical fitness and personal well-being

  • Responsibility for their own learning and conduct

In simple terms: Cadets strengthen their basic skills and become more confident and capable members of the squadron.

Proficiency Level 3 — Developing Independence

Cadets expand their knowledge and are expected to take greater responsibility for their participation and learning.

Training provides opportunities to apply skills, work with others and develop leadership abilities.

Cadets may develop:

  • More advanced drill and ceremonial skills

  • A deeper understanding of aviation and aerospace subjects

  • Problem-solving and decision-making skills

  • Greater independence and accountability

  • Leadership and teamwork skills

  • Confidence in participating in training and group activities

In simple terms: Cadets move beyond learning the basics and begin applying their knowledge more independently.

Proficiency Level 4 — Leadership and Application

Cadets build on previous training and develop their ability to apply knowledge, demonstrate initiative and contribute to the squadron.

Training emphasizes increased responsibility and leadership development.

Cadets may develop:

  • Leadership and instructional abilities

  • More advanced knowledge of Air Cadet subjects

  • Decision-making and problem-solving

  • The ability to work effectively within a team

  • Greater responsibility for their own performance

  • Skills to support other cadets when assigned

In simple terms: Cadets develop the skills and judgment needed to take on greater responsibility and contribute more actively to squadron activities.

Proficiency Level 5 — Advanced Development

This is the fifth level of the Air Cadet training structure.

Cadets continue developing their knowledge, maturity and leadership abilities while applying skills gained throughout their training.

Depending on the training program and assigned responsibilities, cadets may focus on:

  • Advanced leadership and communication

  • Instructional skills and mentoring

  • Applying knowledge to more complex activities

  • Initiative, judgment and accountability

  • Supporting squadron training and activities

  • Preparing for further leadership opportunities

In simple terms: Cadets build on their experience and continue developing the skills needed to lead, instruct and contribute responsibly.

Important Information for Parents

  • Proficiency Levels are part of the Air Cadet training structure.

  • Each level has applicable training requirements that must be completed.

  • Training content and requirements are established by the Cadet Program and may change.

  • Completing a Proficiency Level does not automatically guarantee promotion to a particular rank.

  • Rank promotion and training progression are related but separate processes, governed by current Cadet Program requirements.

What about Green, Red, Silver and Gold Star?

These terms come from the former Air Cadet training system. Parents may still hear them used informally or see them in older documents. The current training structure uses Proficiency Levels 1 through 5. Parents should refer to current squadron instructions for applicable training requirements.

Important Note

This glossary is intended to help parents and cadets understand commonly used terminology. It is not a replacement for official Cadet Program orders, policies, training plans or squadron instructions. Terminology and requirements may change as the program is updated.

Training terminology can change, so current squadron instructions always take priority.

Cadet Ranks vs. Military Ranks

One important thing to remember:

Cadet rank ≠ Canadian Armed Forces rank

Cadets wear uniforms and use ranks as part of the Cadet Program, but cadets are not members of the Canadian Armed Forces simply because they are cadets or hold a cadet rank.

Senior cadets may have significant leadership responsibilities, but they remain participants in a youth development program.

Air Cadet Ranks Explained

Understanding Rank, Responsibility and Promotion

Air Cadets wear rank insignia on their uniforms to identify their current rank within the squadron. As cadets gain experience, complete training requirements and demonstrate leadership potential, they may become eligible for promotion.

Rank is not simply a reward for attending for a certain length of time. Promotion involves meeting the applicable Cadet Program requirements and demonstrating the ability to accept greater responsibility.

Important: Cadet ranks are not the same as Canadian Armed Forces ranks. Air Cadets are participants in a youth development program and do not become members of the Canadian Armed Forces by holding a cadet rank.

1. Air Cadet Rank Structure

The standardized Air Cadet ranks, from lowest to highest, are:

AbbreviationFull rankGeneral descriptionACAir CadetEntry-level cadet rankLACLeading Air CadetA cadet who has progressed beyond the entry rankCplCorporalA junior cadet leadership rankFCplFlight CorporalA cadet rank with increased leadership expectationsSgtSergeantA leadership rank with greater responsibilityFSgtFlight SergeantA senior cadet leadership rankWO2Warrant Officer Second ClassA senior rank involving significant leadership responsibilitiesWO1Warrant Officer First ClassThe highest standardized Air Cadet rank

The exact duties assigned to a cadet depend on the squadron's organization, appointments and direction from adult staff.

2. What Each Rank Means

AC — Air Cadet

This is the entry-level rank for a new Air Cadet.

Cadets at this rank begin learning how the squadron operates and what is expected of them as members of the program.

They are introduced to:

  • Basic drill and ceremonial movements

  • Uniform care and dress standards

  • Squadron routines and procedures

  • Teamwork and communication

  • Citizenship and aviation-related subjects

  • Attendance, punctuality and personal responsibility

What parents should know: New cadets are learning the basics. They are not expected to know everything immediately.

LAC — Leading Air Cadet

Leading Air Cadet is the next rank in the standardized Air Cadet rank structure.

Cadets are expected to continue developing their knowledge, confidence and reliability.

They should demonstrate:

  • Consistent participation in training

  • Appropriate conduct and respect for others

  • Growing knowledge of squadron routines

  • Improved drill and uniform standards

  • Responsibility for their own learning

What parents should know: Progression to LAC reflects development within the program. It does not automatically mean the cadet has been appointed to a leadership position.

Cpl — Corporal

Corporal is a junior leadership rank.

Cadets at this level may begin receiving opportunities to help guide newer cadets and contribute to the smooth operation of training activities.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Setting a positive example

  • Helping junior cadets understand routine procedures

  • Demonstrating appropriate drill and deportment

  • Supporting group activities when assigned

  • Developing communication and leadership skills

What parents should know: A Corporal may be asked to help other cadets, but remains under the authority and supervision of the responsible adult staff.

FCpl — Flight Corporal

Flight Corporal is a leadership rank above Corporal.

Cadets at this level may be given increased opportunities to assist with training, guide junior cadets and demonstrate initiative.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Helping junior cadets learn established procedures

  • Supporting drill and parade activities

  • Demonstrating reliability and good judgment

  • Assisting with group organization when directed

  • Developing the ability to communicate instructions clearly

What parents should know: A Flight Corporal is expected to demonstrate increasing maturity and leadership. Specific responsibilities depend on the squadron's needs and assigned duties.

Sgt — Sergeant

Sergeant is a senior non-commissioned cadet rank.

Cadets at this level may be entrusted with more substantial leadership and instructional responsibilities.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Leading or assisting with designated training activities

  • Helping supervise cadets during assigned activities

  • Supporting junior cadet development

  • Demonstrating strong drill and ceremonial skills

  • Communicating concerns to the appropriate staff

  • Maintaining appropriate standards of conduct

What parents should know: Sergeants may have responsibilities beyond those of junior ranks, but adult staff retain responsibility for the safe and proper conduct of squadron activities.

FSgt — Flight Sergeant

Flight Sergeant is a senior Air Cadet rank.

Cadets at this level may be expected to demonstrate advanced leadership, organization and communication skills.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Leading cadets during designated activities

  • Assisting with instruction and training

  • Supporting the development of junior leaders

  • Helping coordinate squadron activities

  • Demonstrating initiative and sound judgment

  • Communicating with cadets and adult staff appropriately

What parents should know: A Flight Sergeant may have significant responsibilities within the squadron. The rank does not give a cadet unlimited authority over other cadets.

WO2 — Warrant Officer Second Class

Warrant Officer Second Class is a senior cadet rank involving significant leadership expectations.

Cadets at this level may support squadron-wide activities and help coordinate the work of other cadet leaders.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Assisting with the organization of cadet training

  • Supporting and mentoring junior cadet leaders

  • Helping maintain discipline and standards during assigned activities

  • Communicating with adult staff about training needs

  • Demonstrating mature decision-making and accountability

  • Supporting squadron leadership and ceremonial activities

What parents should know: A WO2 is a senior cadet leader. Their authority remains limited to their assigned responsibilities and the direction provided by adult staff.

WO1 — Warrant Officer First Class

Warrant Officer First Class is the highest standardized Air Cadet rank.

Cadets at this level are expected to demonstrate strong leadership, maturity, professionalism and judgment.

Depending on their appointment and squadron organization, responsibilities may include:

  • Supporting the senior cadet leadership team

  • Helping coordinate cadet participation and activities

  • Mentoring other cadet leaders

  • Assisting with the delivery and organization of training

  • Supporting communication between cadets and adult staff

  • Setting a consistent example of conduct and professionalism

What parents should know: WO1 is the highest cadet rank, but it does not make the cadet an adult staff member or a member of the Canadian Armed Forces.

3. What Is a Cadet NCO?

NCO means Non-Commissioned Officer.

Within the Air Cadet Program, the term is commonly used for cadets holding leadership ranks. These cadets may receive duties involving instruction, supervision or the leadership of other cadets.

The rank held does not, by itself, determine every duty a cadet performs. Responsibilities depend on the squadron's organization and the appointments assigned.

Cadet NCOs remain under adult staff supervision.

4. Rank Versus Appointment

Rank and appointment are not the same thing.

Rank is the cadet's position in the standardized rank structure.

Appointment is a specific role or responsibility assigned to a cadet.

For example, a cadet may be assigned a role involving:

  • Flight leadership

  • Squadron drill

  • Band

  • Administration

  • Training support

  • Mentoring junior cadets

Not every cadet holding the same rank will have the same appointment or duties.

A cadet may also be given responsibilities appropriate to their training and experience without holding the highest rank in the squadron.

5. How Does a Cadet Get Promoted?

Promotion is governed by current Cadet Program policy.

Depending on the rank, the applicable requirements may include:

  • Completion of required training

  • Time-in-rank requirements

  • Demonstrated leadership potential

  • Appropriate conduct and performance

  • The ability to accept additional responsibility

  • Meeting any applicable selection requirements

Promotion is not automatic. Meeting a minimum eligibility requirement does not necessarily guarantee promotion.

The requirements for each rank should be checked against the current Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Group orders, particularly the applicable cadet promotion policy.

6. Does a Higher Rank Mean a Cadet Is Better Than Another Cadet?

No.

Rank identifies a cadet's position in the rank structure. It does not determine a person's worth, intelligence, character or potential.

Cadets develop at different rates and may contribute to the squadron in different ways. Leadership includes helping others succeed, showing respect and taking responsibility for one's own actions.

7. Can a Cadet Give Orders to Other Cadets?

Cadets in leadership positions may give instructions within their assigned responsibilities and training.

However:

  • Cadets are not adult staff.

  • Cadet authority is limited by their assigned duties and the direction of adult staff.

  • Safety concerns must be brought to the responsible adult staff.

  • Cadets should be treated respectfully regardless of rank.

  • Parents with concerns should contact the appropriate squadron staff rather than expecting cadets to resolve serious issues independently.

8. Do Cadets Have the Same Ranks as the Military?

Some rank names are similar to those used by the Royal Canadian Air Force, but cadet ranks are part of a separate youth program structure.

Cadets do not become members of the Canadian Armed Forces by wearing a uniform, holding a cadet rank or attending summer training.

9. Quick Reference: Ranks from Lowest to Highest

  1. AC — Air Cadet

  2. LAC — Leading Air Cadet

  3. Cpl — Corporal

  4. FCpl — Flight Corporal

  5. Sgt — Sergeant

  6. FSgt — Flight Sergeant

  7. WO2 — Warrant Officer Second Class

  8. WO1 — Warrant Officer First Class

For parents: Rank progression is one part of a cadet's development. The goal of the Air Cadet Program is to develop capable, responsible young people through leadership, citizenship, fitness, teamwork and learning.

This section is a parent-friendly explanation. Current promotion requirements and official responsibilities are determined by applicable Cadet Program policies and squadron direction.

Still Confused?

That's completely normal!

The Cadet Program has a lot of terminology, and nobody expects a new parent to know it all.

If you see an abbreviation in a squadron email, activity instruction or form that isn't listed here, please ask us.

We're happy to help!

83 Juno Beach Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

This glossary is a parent-friendly reference and does not replace official Cadet Program policies, orders or instructions.

Reviewed October 2026