Air Force Academy Cadets to Train On Aerobatic T-19A Kestrel

Four aerobatic training aircraft will support the Academy’s airmanship program and a future aerobatic training curriculum.

Jack Daleo

Friday, November 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

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Edited By:

Zach Vasile

Academy acquires four Game Composites GB1 Gamebirds designated as the T-19A Kestrel for aerobatic training. [Credit: U.S. Air Force/Ben Kram]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Air Force Academy unveiled four new T-19A Kestrel aerobatic training aircraft, marking its first powered aerobatic planes, to enhance its airmanship program.
Acquired through $3 million in civilian and corporate donations and developed in a rapid 10 months, these aircraft will provide cadets with crucial flight experience and support a future competitive aerobatic team.
The initiative aims to better prepare cadets for active-duty pilot training, addressing the Air Force's persistent pilot shortage.

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The U.S. Air Force Academy on Thursday unveiled a new aerobatic training aircraft to support its airmanship program.

An Air Force spokesperson told digital news outlet Breaking Defense that cadets will train on four two-seat, single-engine Game Composites GB1 Gamebirds, which the service has designated the T-19A Kestrel. The spokesperson said corporate and civilian donations funded the $3 million procurement and that the Air Force will spend about $1 million annually to sustain the aerobats.