The Air Training Corps (ATC) was formed by Royal Warrant in 1941 and sprang from the Air Defence Cadet Corps, founded in 1938 by the Air League. Although initially formed to meet the needs of a nation at war, the Corps continues to thrive as it enters the 21st Century.

	There are now independent Air Cadet Organisations in many other countries throughout the World. Today it continues to thrive and helps a new generation of young people, aged 13 to 20, to find a positive purpose in life.
	The Air Training Corps is part of the Air Cadet organisation (ACO) which also includes RAF Sections of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). The Air Training Corps is a voluntary youth organisation supported by the Royal Air Force. Air Cadets Headquarters is located at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire.

The Air Training Corps is the largest operator of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Perhaps that's not so surprising when you learn that HRH Prince Philip is the ATC's Commodore-in-Chief, taking a keen interest in the organisation and its members.

Air Cadets get the opportunity of flying in RAF and commercial aircraft - many progressing to achieve Flying Scholarships and their Private Pilots Licence (PPL).

The Corps, which has charitable status, is not a recruiting organisation but many members do go on to have careers in the Royal Air Force, other Services or civilian life. Currently approximately 50% of all aircrew (pilots, navigators and NCO aircrew) and 47% of all Officers are ex-Cadets.

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