The program went from concept to delivery of four aircraft in 10 months, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach said. “These aircraft will give cadets an opportunity to further develop their airmanship and will ultimately establish a competitive flying team to inspire future Airmen,” he said.
Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Paul D. Moga selected six active-duty pilots from the Academy staff and the 306th Flying Training Group to develop and run the aerobatics curriculum. “This aircraft will provide an opportunity to train our cadets in ways that were previously not possible,” Moga said.
The six pilots will initially fly demonstrations at recruiting events and air shows across the country. The Academy is working with civilian aerobatic pilots and curriculum developers to build a team that can compete nationally, including in International Aerobatic Club events.
The Academy plans to mentor a group of cadets each year as they progress from basic proficiency in the Kestrel to advanced aerobatics. “As the Kestrel program matures at USAFA, cadets will eventually take on a greater role in training and demonstrations — better preparing them for active-duty pilot training after graduation,” Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink said.
The Kestrels will fly from Davis Airfield, where the Academy will use a safety management system tailored to low-altitude, high-performance aerobatics. Flight and ground operations will follow the stricter applicable requirements under Federal Aviation Administration regulations and Air Force safety instructions.
