At thousands of feet above Sebring Regional Airport, a young pilot feels the hum of the engine as the aircraft soars through the brilliant blue sky. It’s a moment of focus and exhilaration—navigating the skies alone for the first time.
This past week, 12 Civil Air Patrol (CAP) cadets from across the country experienced this pivotal milestone, completing their first solo flights as part of a National Special Activity Program held at Sebring. Among them was 18-year-old Jordan May-Roman, who reflected on the mix of nerves and concentration.
“It’s definitely a little nerve-wracking, being the only person in the plane,” Roman shared. “But once you take off, the training kicks in, and you focus on what you’re doing. It was absolutely amazing.”
On the ground, CAP Lt. Col. Bob Brinley observed Roman’s smooth landing with pride, alongside fellow cadets eagerly awaiting their turns.
“He looks great, he’s doing just fine,” Brinley said as Roman’s Cessna 175 glided to a stop.
The week-long program brought together six CAP flight instructors, each paired with two cadets. Under the guidance of CAP General Joseph Vazquez, the students mastered takeoffs, landings, and essential flight patterns to build the confidence and skills needed for solo flight.
“They have to safely orbit in the pattern, land, and come to a complete stop—precisely as they’ve been taught,” Vazquez explained. “Instructors guide them through repeated takeoffs and landings, addressing mistakes and ensuring readiness before the solo.”
Seventeen-year-old Jetley Joseph of Pennsylvania was among the cadets who completed his solo flight, describing the experience as a major achievement.
“It’s a milestone,” Joseph said. “Flying without an instructor is different. There’s more to learn, like navigating cross-country, but this is an important step toward my pilot’s license.”
Cadets hailed from across the U.S., including Florida, West Virginia, Arizona, and Rhode Island. Each brought their unique enthusiasm and dedication, united by their shared goal of becoming pilots.
The program’s significance extended beyond the individual flights. Vazquez highlighted CAP’s broader mission: fostering aerospace education, leadership skills, and career pathways in aviation and aerospace.
“Beyond flying, we prepare cadets for roles in the FAA, mechanics, and other aerospace careers,” Vazquez said. “With a national pilot shortage, our work is more important than ever.”
The week concluded with a graduation dinner and ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of these aspiring aviators. For these young cadets, the skies above Sebring marked the beginning of new horizons and a lifetime of flight.
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