UCM Flight Team

The University of Central Missouri Flight Team is a student organization in which dedicated pilots practice and develop aeronautical knowledge and skills.  Team members compete in regional and national competitions held by the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA).  These week long competitions consist of numerous flight and ground events which test aeronautical skills.  Each fall, UCM competes in the NIFA Region VI Safety and Flight Evaluation CONference (SAFECON) with teams from other schools in Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma.  The top-scoring teams from this competition earn entry into the NIFA National SAFECON, which is held each spring.

The University of Central Missouri has a proud tradition of excellence in intercollegiate competition, earning eleven regional championships since 1991 and frequently qualifying for nationals.  UCM has participated in NIFA competitions since 1976 and has hosted three regional competitions at Max B. Swisher Skyhaven Airport (KRCM).  Please see the awards section for detailed competition history.

Team membership is open to all UCM students who meet the eligibility requirements, including flight instructors, pilots not majoring in aviation, and even student pilots (ground events only).  Anyone interested is competing is welcome to practice with the team.  Fall tryouts will determine which members will compete in the Region VI SAFECON.  If the team qualifies for the National SAFECON, tryouts will be held again in the spring semester.  Those interested in joining the team may contact us for more information.