The inception of the Air Cadet League of Canada took place at the start of the Second World War when Minister of National Defence for Air, Charles G. Power, identified a need to develop a volunteer-based organization with the goal to train youth in aviation skills.

The need to have young men trained and ready to support the military efforts during the Second World War was the foundation of the Air Cadet League during this formative time period.

Despite the decrease in enrollment numbers, the Air Cadet League of Canada continued to see the value of developing leadership and good citizen responsibilities amongst Canadian youth.

The organization evolved to become a space where students could learn flight training, effective speaking, teamwork, survival, navigation, marksmanship, music, aerospace and operations skillsets.

The Air Cadet League of Canada operates in collaboration with the Canadian Armed Forces, among other partners, to spearhead non-profit driven initiatives all while keeping today's Canadian boys and girls (between the ages of 12–18) interested in their personal and career development in aviation.

In 1965, the world's largest gliding program launched as part of a summer camp at Penhold, Alberta.

Qualifying cadets are able to obtain their Glider Pilot License from Transport Canada at the end of their participation in the training.

[9] The Air Cadet League hosts the Triple AAA Career Expo with various industry partners, educators, trainers and companies related to aviation.