“Doctrinam Accingimus Alis”. We equip learning with wings. That’s the motto of the Cambridge University Air Squadron. Isn’t it inspiring?
The Cambridge University Air Squadron, or CUAS, is the Royal Air Force training unit at the University of Cambridge. It stands as the oldest of the 15 University Air Squadrons in the UK. CUAS has a rich history dating back to its formation in 1925.
Initially, CUAS operated from a runway near the RAF Engineering School at Fen Causeway. After a brief period at RAF Duxford, it moved to Cambridge Airport in 1949. It remained there until 1999 before relocating to RAF Wyton. In 2014, the squadron moved again to RAF Wittering.
Cambridge University Air Squadron aims to foster interest in the Royal Air Force. It provides flying experience to students sponsored by the RAF. Any prospective member unable to attend the Freshers’ Fair should contact the Squadron Adjutant. The address is 2 Chaucer Road, Cambridge.
CUAS offers basic flying training and adventure training to undergraduates and graduates. It encourages members to pursue careers as officers in the Royal Air Force. Student members hold the title of Officer Cadet. This title carries the privileges, but not the rank, of a commissioned officer.
Officer Cadets attend training nights during term time. These usually involve lectures by guest speakers on various aspects of air power. They also participate in two weeks of continuous training during the Long Vacation. Cambridge University Air Squadron also organizes camps during university vacations for sports and adventure training. Periods of intense flying training are conducted over the Easter and Long Vacations.
Cambridge University Air Squadron shares RAF Wittering with the University of London Air Squadron. They are equipped with Grob Tutor T Mk 1s. The Hack Trophy is awarded annually to the best University Air Squadron. It is based on flying training, standards, ground school, and administration. Cambridge UAS won the trophy several times. They won in 1970, 1974, and 1975. 1975 was the squadron’s 50th anniversary. They also won in 1977.
Several notable individuals have been members of the Cambridge University Air Squadron. King Charles III trained to fly with CUAS while at Cambridge University. Frank Whittle, inventor of the turbo-jet engine, was also a member. Kate Saunders was the first female to eject in the UK. She studied classics at Queens’ College, Cambridge.
The Cambridge University Air Squadron continues to uphold its motto. It equips learning with wings. It trains future leaders of the Royal Air Force. It has moved several times. Today, CUAS is based at RAF Wittering. It continues its mission to train future RAF officers.