Taking Flight at iFLY
Civil Air Patrol Squadron Takes Flight at iFLY Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA [MAR 2, 2025] -- Members of Civil Air Patrol’s McGuire Composite Squadron
recently had the thrilling opportunity to experience the science and sensation of flight at iFLY
Philadelphia, an indoor skydiving facility. The visit was part of CAP’s ongoing commitment to
aerospace education and hands-on learning for its cadets and adult members.
During the event, CAP members engaged in a specialized STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering,
and Math) program that included an educational briefing on the physics of flight and aerodynamics.
Following the lesson, participants geared up and entered the vertical wind tunnel, where they
experienced the exhilaration of simulated freefall flight.
"This was an incredible experience for our squadron," said 1st Lt Justin Hawkins, commander of the
McGuire Composite Squadron. "Not only did our cadets and adult members learn about the forces of
flight in an interactive way, but they also had the chance to apply that knowledge in a high-energy
environment. It was an unforgettable way to reinforce key aerospace concepts."
The Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, promotes aerospace education as one of
its core missions. Opportunities like the iFLY experience give cadets hands-on exposure to aviation
principles while fostering teamwork, confidence, and a deeper understanding of STEM topics.
If you are a student between the ages of 12-18, or an adult, and interested in Civil Air Patrol, please
reach out to Lt Col Bill Petzinger via email bill.petzinger@njwg.cap.gov. Or visit the unit’s website:
https://mcguire.cap.gov.
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later,
Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth
development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force
partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and
rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s
communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.