This program builds character and leadership traits through parachuting. When cadets step out of an airplane at 4,500 feet above the ground, they must trust their equipment, their training, and more importantly, their own self-discipline to get them safely back to the ground. Academy graduates consistently rate the parachute program ashaving cultivated character and discipline that were key factors to successin the operational Air Force. The basic course trains more than 750 cadets each year. The final course gives military training credit to cadets whoare instructors for the other three programs.
Cadets play a major role in training and safety.
For example, virtually all cadet jumps are controlled by cadet jumpmasters. These duties providepractical leadership experience with a large amount of responsibility. Airlift support for cadet parachuting is provided by three UV-18B aircraft. It carries a pilot, copilot and up to 17 jumpers. It has a cruise speed of 150 knots, a service ceiling of 25,000feet and a range of 700 miles.