The unit was formed in 1925 and initially operated out a runway located next to RAF Engineering school at Fen causeway in Cambridge.

Students may apply for an Acting Pilot Officer course in the RAF Volunteer Reserves, with four being selected per year.

Officer Cadets are required to attend a minimum of one training night a week during full term, usually a lecture by a guest speaker on an aspect of the Royal Air Force, another military unit or Air Power.

Periods of intense flying training (PIFTs) are conducted over the Easter and Long Vacations.

CUAS is based at RAF Wittering a station which they share with the University of London Air Squadron, and is equipped with Grob Tutor T Mk 1s.