New program equips student pilots with advanced aerobatic skills, hands-on upset recovery training and a pathway to competitive flying that prepares them for high-level aviation careers

Thrust Flight, a leading U.S. aviation training provider and home of the Zero Time to Airline® program, today announced the launch of its Thrust Aerobatic Training Package and the formation of the Thrust Aerobatic Team, providing student pilots with hands-on experience in advanced aerobatics that few flight schools offer. The program combines structured, high-performance training with a clear pathway for students to refine their skills, gain confidence, and compete in national-level events using purpose-built, new aircraft, including the GB1 GameBird and Super Decathlon.

The Thrust Aerobatic Training Package delivers eight hours of specialized aerobatic and upset recovery instruction. Students train in critical skills such as upset prevention and recovery, advanced decision-making, precision control and situational awareness under dynamic flight conditions. The program also helps students master flight techniques and judgment skills that airline recruiters seek.

Upon completing the package, top-performing students are invited to try out for the Thrust Aerobatic Team, the only flight school-sponsored aerobatic team in the U.S. With only four other colleges currently operating aerobatic teams, Thrust Flight is the first non-collegiate flight school in the country to offer this opportunity, giving participants visibility and real-world experience unavailable elsewhere.

“By pairing high-level aerobatic training with a real path into competition, we’re opening doors that most flight schools simply don’t,” said Patrick Arnzen, CEO and founder of Thrust Flight. “The training is structured, professional and tightly controlled so students can grow fast and fly with confidence. They leave with sharper skills, stronger judgment and a real sense of what they’re capable of.”

The Thrust Aerobatic Training Package is currently offered at Thrust Flight’s Addison and Denison campuses, with plans to expand further. Students who complete the program gain membership in the Aerobatic Instructor Community (AIC) and receive branded team merchandise. Those invited to join the Thrust Aerobatic Team participate in demonstration flights, formation aerobatics (as approved) and events ranging from recruiting activities to industry functions, giving them real-world experience beyond traditional pilot training.

“This is about giving students more than a certificate at the end,” Arnzen said. “If they’re willing to put in the work, we want to give them a place to grow, a higher standard to chase and a chance to see what they can really do.”

For more information about the Thrust Aerobatic Training Package and Team, visit thrustflight.com/aerobatic-training.

About Thrust Flight

Thrust Flight is a nationally recognized aviation training provider with locations across Texas. Over the past 15 years, the company has trained thousands of pilots through its flagship Zero Time to Airline® program, preparing them to fly for commercial airlines around the globe. Today, Thrust Flight offers a full suite of FAA-approved programs for pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and flight dispatchers, supporting every stage of the aviation career journey. Learn more at thrustflight.com and thrustinstitute.com.

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