Air Force Academy Receives Four T-19A Platforms for Advanced Aerobatic Training

The Air Force's Newest Trainer Is An Aerial Stunt Plane

Dubbed the T-19A Kestrel, the aircraft will give cadets a chance to experience acrobatic flying while also serving as a pilot recruiting tool.

Air Force Academy receives four T-19A platforms for advanced aerobatic training

The Air Force Academy today accepted delivery of four T-19A Kestrel aircraft, accelerating the service's push to develop an aerobatic pilot curriculum and enhance active-duty training. “From inception to delivery, these aircraft reflect the speed and innovation that strengthens the Department of the Air Force,” service Secretary Troy Meink said in a statement. “As the Kestrel program matures at USAFA, cadets will eventually take on a greater rol…

Air Force unveils T-19A, a new aerobatic plane to train future pilots

Built by Game Aerospace Composites, the GB1 Gamebird — designated the T-19A by the Air Force — was funded through corporate and civilian donations and will form the foundation of a new aerobatic flying team.

US Air Force introduces T-19A Kestrel, a civilian aerobatic aircraft for military training

Four donated GB1 GameBird airplanes will help Air Force Academy cadets develop advanced flying skills and form a new aerobatic demonstration team

Air Force leaders pilot T-19A Kestrel in historic Academy debut • United States Air Force Academy

A U.S. Air Force Academy cadet stands in front of a T-19A Kestrel aircraft during its debut ceremony at Davis Airfield, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., Nov. 12, 2026. The […]