Cadet Nathanial Brochu, 13, from 747 Unicorn Royal Canadian Air Cadets got to indulge his love of planes while exploring the cockpit of a Cessna 172 at Victoria Airport, during an exclusive tour for air cadets taking courses at Albert Head Cadet Training Centre this summer.
Enjoying a coveted place in the left-hand pilot seat, Brochu excitedly inspected the instruments.
“This is my first time away from my family for more than one night and I am down here in Victoria! I love the opportunities for travel that I get from air cadets. I am excited about going to museums and sight-seeing in different places,” said Brochu.
Along with Brochu, the cadets saw the different working parts of a plane and were taught the pre-flight checks every pilot has to complete before taking off.
This summer, Brochu, who has been a cadet for almost a year, is taking the two week general training course where he will enjoy a sample of the many activities cadets can pursue and learn important skills such as making a bed.
A student at Skeena Middle School, Brochu loves animation when not at cadets but really enjoys the fun activities of the Air Cadet Program.
“The flying is really fun. I have been gliding and flying in the tow plane. I can't describe the feeling but it is good. I just love all the fun!” he said.
Brochu went on to enjoy a tour of the Sea King helicopters at 443 Marine Helicopter Squadron.