Joining CAP

[pilot716]

I am a retired NYPD Detective and hold a private pilot license with instrument rating. I am interested in joining the CAP as a senior member and fly CAP missions. I would look for a unit in central NJ. I have used the unit finder, but just curious if anyone knows which units are senior or cadets or both to limit my search? also what are the requirements to join and fly, Thanks, Mark

[peter rabbit]

I'm not from NJ, but most of the unit names will say Composite, Senior, or Cadet with Composite meaning both seniors and cadets. If that's not in the name, many listings have a link to a website that will provide more information. To join, I recommend visiting unit meetings and see what the unit is like - especially if there are several units convenient to you. After you decide, you'll complete an application and submit with a fingerprint card they'll give you, and check(s) for national/region/wing and possibly local dues. To fly, you'll sign a statement of understanding, take an online test, and go through a checkride process similar to (but not exactly like) a BFR. Doing that also completes all but one requirement for a level in the FAA Wings program -  which substitutes for a BFR. If you want to fly on missions, there are additional steps for that. If you like investigations, I would also encourage you to look at additionally participating in the Inspector General program in CAP.
If you like to fly, I haven't found a better way than CAP.

[pilot716]

Thanks for the info, I will check out a couple of local squadron's , most of the local ones are composite, also does the unit have to be based at an airport? thanks again, Mark

[JeffDG]

The airport based squadrons will probably be more flying based, while the non-airport ones will probably focus more on cadet programs and ground team activities.

That said, just because you aren't in a heavy flying squadron doesn't mean you can't go to the airport and fly too...the planes are owned by the wing (New Jersey in your case) not the squadron.

[Flying Pig]

As a retired cop, you can have some real fun in CAP. I dont know anything about NY or NJ wings, but definitely check into it.  Just keep in mind, flying in CAP can be hit or miss.  FLight time usually comes in bursts with a lot of down time in bewteen.  However, if you want to interact with pilots and have a good group of pilots to hang out with and fly with, your in the right place.
What I tell my new members is that in order to be successful in CAP you need to buy into the whole program.  Professional Development, uniform wear, understanding CAP THREE missions.  Not just the mission with that involves the plane! This isnt a flying club.  CAP doesnt just happen.  My unit has cadets as well as Seniors.  If you want to fly the Squadrons 182 G1000, when the call comes in to help out with a cadet activity or pick up a staff job or mop the floors, as a pilot your hand better be the first one up.  Otherwise, youll never see the plane.  Just like police work.  Youll have attitudes to deal with, you have members like everywhere else who dont like cops for one reason or another etc etc.  Have the attitude of what can I do for you guys vs what can CAP do for my flying budget and youll have a good time.

[spacecommand]

Depends on the squadron thats why if you live in an area with a squadrons close to each other go to each one and see what you like.  Ask plenty of questions.

Note that just because a squadron meets at an airport doesn't mean it is flying heavy.  Our squadron meets at an airport and we have a big active ground team in combination with air crews.  I work with some cadets and senior members who have no interest in flying believe it or not.  Again each squadron is different so go around, get a feel for which ones you might like.

[JeffDG]

Depends on the squadron thats why if you live in an area with a squadrons close to each other go to each one and see what you like.  Ask plenty of questions.

Note that just because a squadron meets at an airport doesn't mean it is flying heavy.  Our squadron meets at an airport and we have a big active ground team in combination with air crews.  I work with some cadets and senior members who have no interest in flying believe it or not.  Again each squadron is different so go around, get a feel for which ones you might like.

That's why I said "probably".  Its more likely that an airport based squadron will be flying-heavy...not certain, just more likely.

[flyboy53]

I am a retired NYPD Detective and hold a private pilot license with instrument rating. I am interested in joining the CAP as a senior member and fly CAP missions. I would look for a unit in central NJ. I have used the unit finder, but just curious if anyone knows which units are senior or cadets or both to limit my search? also what are the requirements to join and fly, Thanks, Mark

I wouldn't short-change the NYW. The former group commander over NYC is a retired NYC Police Sergeant. Her husband, a chaplain, is a retired NYC FD firefighter.

CAP presence in NYS is so large that the NYC Group was just split in half with a separate group for Long Island. Long Island units seem to do the most flying.