JAMESTOWN COMPOSITE SQUADRON 402
PERFORMING MISSIONS FOR AMERICA

Civil Air Patrol Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I join the Civil Air Patrol?
You can begin by visiting the local squadron. The Jamestown Composite Squadron currently meets every Thursday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Jamestown Chautauqua County Regional Airport. After visiting the Civil Air Patrol and you decide to join, complete the membership application and turn it into Colonel Ellen Maternowski during the CAP meeting. New adult members will need to undergo a background check. A volunteer fingerprint card can be obtained during the meeting. You will need to have your fingerprints processed at the New York State Police Deptartment located at 3081 N Main Street Ext, Jamestown, NY 14701.

How much will it cost me to join the Civil Air Patrol - Jamestown Composite Squadron 402?
Senior member dues are $60 annually. Parent sponsors are $30 annually. Cadets dues are $35 which covers all of Phase 1 material, dress blues uniform, and cover.

Do members have to wear a uniform?
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members are authorized to wear an Air Force style uniform with distinctive CAP badges and devices. All CAP cadets and senior members who conduct the cadet training program are required to wear a CAP uniform. Senior members are required to purchase their own uniform and may wear the AF-style uniform or one of the many CAP distinctive uniforms. Senior members may also wear appropriate civilian clothing unless the commander has required a particular uniform type for the purpose of achieving a uniform appearance at squadron, group, wing, region, or national functions. A CAP uniform is required when flying in corporate aircraft or member-owned aircraft used in a CAP flight activity.

Are non-U.S. citizens allowed to join?
Aliens admitted for permanent residence are eligible. Other non-citizens must request a waiver of the citizenship requirement through the wing and region commander.

I'm not a pilot. May I still join?
Yes! There are many "jobs" in the Civil Air Patrol. Whatever your talent or area of interest, there is a squadron or unit that needs you. Please refer to the Specialty Tracks/Job Opportunities page to find a list of some of the jobs available.

What criteria must a pilot meet to fly corporate aircraft?
To be eligible to fly a corporate aircraft, the pilot must possess a valid FAA private, commercial, or airline transport pilot certificate; must be an active CAP member at least 17 years in age; must possess a valid and a current medical certificate. The member must complete a flight check in an aircraft within the preceding 12 months as well as an annual written examination and annual aircraft questionnaires for each aircraft authorized to fly. To fly missions or be a cadet orientation pilot, additional flight time and training is required.