Falcon Flight Academy Helps NJ Wing Cadets Turn Aviation Dreams Into Reality

Falcon Flight Academy Helps NJ Wing Cadets Turn Aviation Dreams Into Reality

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE–DIX–LAKEHURST, N.J. (Aug 17, 2026) -- Five New Jersey Wing cadets were among 14 Civil Air Patrol cadets who participated in this year’s Falcon Flight Academy, gaining hands-on flight training, immersive aerospace education and unforgettable aviation experiences designed to prepare the next generation of aerospace leaders.

Representing New Jersey Wing were C/Maj. Adrian Chaberek, C/Maj. Sahas Patil, C/Capt. Riddhi Patel, C/1st Lt. Emma Joseph, and C/2d Lt. Gabriella Couvertier.

“Falcon Flight is about giving cadets the opportunity to move beyond the classroom and experience aviation firsthand,” said Maj. Rob McClellan, Falcon Flight director. “Our goal is not only to help them develop as aviators, but to give them the confidence, knowledge and experiences they need to pursue their goals in aviation and aerospace.”

For Couvertier, of the Air Victory Composite Squadron, the academy provided an opportunity to turn a lifelong interest in aviation into practical experience.

“I have always wanted to become a pilot,” Couvertier said. “Every lesson built my confidence and reminded me why I want to pursue aviation as a career.” She said one of the most rewarding aspects of the academy was seeing classroom instruction translate into actual flight. Working alongside cadets who shared her passion for aviation made the experience even more meaningful.

The academy also challenged Couvertier to manage a large amount of new information while remaining confident in the cockpit. By asking questions, listening to her instructor and practicing each day, she learned the importance of patience, preparation and persistence. Her instructor, Eashan Samak, also made a lasting impression through his patience, encouragement and willingness to answer questions.

Falcon Flight Academy strengthened Couvertier’s determination to pursue aviation professionally. A recent high school graduate, she plans to attend Mercer County Community College and major in Aviation Flight Technology, continue her flight training and work toward her commercial pilot certificate. Her long-term goal is to become a professional pilot while continuing to help others discover aviation.

For 17-year-old Patel of the Jersey City Composite Squadron, the academy brought her dream of becoming a pilot into sharp focus. “The most memorable moment for me was when I realized I was actually sitting in the left seat, the pilot’s seat,” she said. “It felt a little scary, but also incredibly exciting and rewarding.” The experience made her even more determined to pursue her private pilot certificate and a career in aviation.

Patel also discovered that learning to fly sometimes requires creative problem-solving. One unexpected challenge was reaching the rudder pedals. Her solution? Two pillows to raise her high enough to operate them properly. “It taught me that being a pilot is about adapting, staying focused, and finding solutions when things don’t go exactly as planned,” she said.

Their experiences are part of a growing record of aviation achievement among New Jersey Wing cadets. C/Lt. Col. Nathaniel Hawkins, 17, of the Maj Thomas B. McGuire Jr. Composite Squadron, and C/2d Lt. Harasees Singh of Twin Pine Composite Squadron, successfully completed their FAA private pilot checkrides.

About Civil Air Patrol

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.

Visit CAP.news or GoCivilAirPatrol.com for more information. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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For More Information:

Lt. Col. Bill Petzinger, CAP

1+ 609-306-0966

Email: public.affairs@njwg.cap.gov