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International Air Cadet Exchange

The International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE) is a global programme that enables air cadet organisations from different countries to take part in exchange visits.

Its aim is to promote friendship, cultural understanding, and cooperation among young people with a shared interest in aviation. The programme usually involves cadets aged 17 to 21, who travel to a host country for around two weeks. While there, they take part in activities such as visiting military bases, airports, aerospace companies, and cultural sites.

History of the International Air Cadet Exchange

On 11 April 1946, the UK Air Training Corps (ATC) and the Air Cadet League of Canada (ACLC) met in Montreal, where the ACLC proposed an Air Cadet exchange programme. The plan was delayed due to a polio outbreak, but in 1947, the first exchange between Canada and the UK took place, involving 46 cadets and two officers.

In 1948, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) from the US joined the exchange, with cadets travelling between the US, Canada, and the UK. By 1950, Sweden joined, followed by Norway, the Netherlands, and Denmark in 1952. As more countries participated, the International Air Cadet Exchange Association was formed to coordinate the programme. It offers cadets a chance to learn about aviation, military traditions, and international teamwork.

What you’ll do on an international exchange

On an international exchange, a cadet will travel to a host country for around two weeks, where they will:

  • Visit military bases, airports, and aerospace companies
  • Take part in aviation-related activities and tours
  • Explore cultural sites and learn about the host country’s history and customs
  • Meet fellow cadets from different countries, building friendships and sharing experiences
  • Gain insight into international military and aviation practices

The experience focuses on learning about aviation and promoting cultural understanding and teamwork among cadets from around the world.

Example itinerary - United States of America

Here’s an example of what an exchange programme for cadets who visited the USA could include:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Orlando, Florida
  • Day 2: Visit to the John F. Kennedy Space Centre
  • Day 3: Tour of Patrick Space Force Base in the morning; Visits to Cape Canaveral, NASA, SpaceX, and Blue Origin in the afternoon
  • Day 4: Morning at Jet Blue Training Facility; Afternoon visit to a local Civil Air Patrol Squadron
  • Day 5: Morning orientation flights at Lakeland Linder International Airport. Afternoon baseball game
  • Day 6: Day trip to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
  • Day 7: Visit to McDill AFB/US Special Operations Command and US Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater
  • Day 8: Morning at Orange County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit; Afternoon visit to Lockheed Martin Aviation Unit
  • Day 9: Full day at Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort
  • Day 10: Morning shopping at Disney Springs and local outlets; Departure dinner in the evening
  • Day 11: Travel to Washington, D.C.
  • Days 12 and 13: Tours of Arlington National Cemetery, Smithsonian Museums, and Washington D.C. monuments
  • Day 14: Continued tours around Washington D.C.; Departure dinner
  • Day 15: Return to home countries

The itinerary included a mix of aviation-related visits, cultural experiences, and leisure activities.

Highlights from participants

The International Air Cadet Exchange offers something for everyone. Here are some of the highlights shared with us from those who visited the UK on previous exchanges.

“Being on the flights was awesome. I have my Pilots License in the States, however, this was my first time actually riding and flying acrobatic manoeuvres. It is a different type of flying that most beginner pilots don't get to experience. Other than the flights, being able to interact more with the other countries and seeing their culture through their gifts was a great experience too.”

Garrett Andrews, member of the United States Air Civil Air Patrol Cadet Programme.

“We visited 126 (City of Derby) Squadron and it was nice to meet UK cadets when in the UK. We also got a chance to see how the activities of the RAF Air Cadets differs from the activities in Sweden. We also went to the House of Commons and it was very interesting - I have seen it on TV and now I got to see it in real life.”

Sofia Heed (Swedish Air Force Voluntary)

“We had an incredible two weeks filled with unforgettable experiences. Starting off by flying an aeroplane and doing three loops myself was an exhilarating first-time experience. Watching the big airshow at RIAT and talking to the pilots of the Gripen was amazing, especially getting a private, close look at the aircraft. The trip was a perfect mix of adventure, learning, and excitement.”

Plt Off Saffron Ferreira

Applying for future International Air Cadet Exchanges

If you’re a UK based Air Cadet and are interested in travelling abroad as part of the international exchange, please speak to your Squadron or Unit staff for details of the application process and criteria.