British Empire Air Training Scheme

The British Commonwealth Air Training Scheme (BCATS), initiated during World War II, was a massive collaborative effort among Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth nations to train aircrew—pilots, navigators, bombers, and other roles. It established numerous flight schools across these countries, especially in Canada, creating a centralized system to produce skilled personnel efficiently. This training was vital for the Allies' air operations, and the scheme significantly expanded the capacity to prepare military aviators, contributing to the eventual success of Allied air campaigns during the war.