Thrust Aerobatic Training & Team
Join the Only Flight School-Sponsored Aerobatic Team in the United States.
The Thrust Aerobatic Training Package elevates the Zero Time to Airline program with elite-level training. This premium add-on integrates eight hours of upset recovery and aerobatic training into the professional pilot program. Select students who complete the aerobatic program are invited to join the Thrust Aerobatic Team.
Propel Your Career Further with Aerobatic Training
The program transforms pilots into exceptional aviators as they gain aerobatic and upset recovery training. This exclusive program is designed to help pilots learn advanced flight controls while mastering the skills airline recruiters seek. Over the course of eight hours, students train through a variety of situations including:
- Upset Prevention & Recovery: Recognize and recover from developing loss-of-control scenarios.
- Critical Decision-Making: Prioritize flight controls and energy management under pressure.
- Aerobatic Fundamentals: Perform basic positive-G maneuvers with professional precision.
- Dynamic Orientation: Maintain total situational awareness in extreme attitudes.
Training is delivered exclusively by senior, highly experienced flight instructors who have mastered these skills and excel at teaching them to other pilots.
All of the training is performed in a high-performance fleet made up of the Super Decathlon and GB1 Gamebird. Students who choose to enroll in the Aerobatic Program will receive an upgraded headset.
The Thrust Aerobatic Team
Students who successfully complete the Thrust Aerobatic Training Program will become eligible to try out for the Thrust Aerobatic Team.
Thrust select pilots who demonstrate a high level of aerobatic skill, professionalism, and judgment. Members of the team will receive additional standardized training to improve their aerobatic skills and prepare them for competition.
Perform in Competition
Represent Thrust at IAC contests, competing against other elite pilots in a professional aerobatic environment.
Give Skill Demonstrations
As Thrust Aerobatic Team members build their skills they’ll be able to perform demonstrations for other pilots and give them upset recovery training.
Participate in Exclusive Events
From recruiting events to industry functions, Thrust Aerobatic Team members will be able to show off their skills with individual maneuvers and formation aerobatics (as approved).
How to Join this Elite Flight Team
Entry into the Thrust Aerobatic Team is selective and reserved for top-performing students. If a student would like to be considered for a spot on the team, here are the steps they need to take:
- Academic Excellence: Students maintain high standards throughout the Zero Time to Airline program through the CFI level.
- Advanced Enrollment: During CFI training, pilots complete the eight-hour Aerobatic Training Package at the Addison (KADS) or Denison (KGYI) campuses.
- Formal Application: Candidates submit an application for a formal interview and a demonstration flight with lead instructors.
- Team Induction: Successful candidates earn a spot on the only flight school-sponsored team in the nation.
This is the only flight school-sponsored aerobatic team in the United States, providing a level of visibility and prestige you won’t find anywhere else.
Our Aerobatic Fleet
GB1 Gamebird
The GB1 GameBird was designed specifically to be the best aerobatic and touring airplane in the world.
This sleek aircraft allows students to master spin and upset recovery training with modern precision. No other flight school in the country gives career-oriented students access to such an advanced aerobatic platform.
- Year model: 2023
- Avionics: Garmin G3x
Super Decathlon
The American Champion 8KCAB Super Decathlon is a proven, purpose-built aerobatic aircraft and a cornerstone of advanced flight training. It provides an ideal platform for aerobatic students as they learn foundational maneuvers and upset recovery techniques.
The “Super D” taildragger is capable of handling +6G and -5G, making it an excellent trainer for the Thrust Aerobatic Team. Few professional flight programs in the country provide students with access to an aircraft of this caliber.
Enroll in Aerobatic Training
The Thrust Aerobatic Training program is an exclusive upgrade for students actively enrolled in the Zero Time to Airline program. Current and future students may use the buttons below to access the correct application and secure a place in the next training cycle.
Upcoming Events
IAC Aerobatic Judging Seminar
Want to learn more about judging International Aerobatic Club contests? Attend this seminar hosted by Curt Richmond at our Addison campus.
February 21, 2026 9am to 3pm
February 22, 2026 9am to 3pm
Please contact our team to RSVP.
Testimonials
