Four T-19A Kestrel aircraft soared over the U.S. Air Force Academy's Cadet Wing during noon meal formation on Nov. 12, marking the official public debut of the Academy's first aircraft dedicated to powered aerobatic training.

At the controls were Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach, Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Paul Moga, Academy Provost Brig. Gen. James Valpiani, and initial cadre member Lt. Col. Evan Backes. The aircraft landed at Davis Airfield, where the leaders joined attendees for a formal ceremony.

The Air Force accepted four donated single-engine, two-seat aerobatic aircraft to stand up the T-19A program. The initiative is intended to expand cadet airmanship opportunities and strengthen aviation skills ahead of future training.

A select group of cadets chose the name Kestrel for the aircraft, after a small, agile falcon known for precise flight. Six active-duty military pilots from the Academy's staff and the 306th Flying Training Group form the initial cadre responsible for developing the aerobatic training curriculum.

Source: U.S. Air Force Academy