More than 2,000 RAF Air Cadets gathered for one of the most anticipated events in the youth aviation calendar this year – the National Air & Space Camp (NASC) Industry Day – with the Air Cadet Charity being proud to be the main sponsor.

The day delivered an exciting mix of STEM learning, aviation insight and industry engagement. Cadets were welcomed with special support packs featuring an Air Cadet Charity branded bag, baseball cap and water bottle (plus t-shirts for those who attended the entire camp), before diving into a packed programme of interactive exhibits and demonstrations. A major attraction was the chance to “fly” the Lightning F-35 using high-tech flight simulators brought to camp by the charity – proving so popular that the end of the queue couldn't be seen for some of the afternoon!

Industry Day forms a key part of the week-long National Air & Space Camp, which the charity also supported, dedicated to inspiring future generations in science, technology, engineering and aviation. Cadets took part in hands-on experiences ranging from robotics and aircraft engineering to satellite communications, gliding and immersive flight simulation.

"Thank you for a truly wonderful day. I won’t forget it and hope that I will be part of the RAF in years to come. Thank you."
Cadet from 5F (Northampton) Squadron

They also had the opportunity to speak directly with leading organisations in the aviation industry, gaining valuable career insight into roles across the RAF, the wider Armed Forces and the UK aerospace sector.

The Air Cadet Charity also funded an ‘Inspire Stage’ – a 100-seat mobile auditorium with recording and streaming capabilities. Throughout the day, industry professionals and military personnel delivered 30-minute career or industry focused presentations on the Inspire Stage, which were streamed live to cadets who couldn’t attend the day.

During the afternoon, the cadets were treated to a spectacular range of flying displays including the Typhoon, Chinook, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Red Arrows and many more. On the ground, a showcase of modern and vintage supercars, including Aston Martins and Ferraris, added to the excitement.

“NASC Industry Day is a wonderful example of what the RAF Air Cadets movement is all about. Opportunity, inspiration and confidence-building through real hands-on experiences. We are immensely proud to support this event and everything it delivers for young people across the UK.”
Jess Gilbert, Director of the Air Cadet Charity

Planning is already underway for NASC Industry Day 2026, and the Air Cadet Charity looks forward to continuing its support for this flagship youth aviation event.

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