Honoring Legacy. Building the Future of Aviation.

Red Tail Academy was founded to carry forward the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen — breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and shaping the next generation of aviators. Aspire Aviation was built with that same vision: to modernize training in Kansas City and provide the tools, aircraft, and environment that fuel excellence.

Together, we’ve created a program where students don’t just learn to fly — they learn to lead.

Why Red Tail Academy Matters

Carrying the Tuskegee Legacy

Every hour flown is a tribute to the original Red Tails, honoring their fight for equality and excellence in aviation.

Access and Opportunity

Red Tail Academy opens doors for students who may not otherwise have the chance to pursue aviation — delivering mentorship, structure, and a direct pathway to professional flight.

Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders

This is more than flight training. It’s about instilling discipline, confidence, and responsibility in the cockpit and beyond.

The History of Red Tail Academy

Red Tail Academy officially launched in June 2020 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Kansas City. Founded by local pilots and aviation enthusiasts, the Academy was created to expose, educate, and mentor underrepresented youth ages 12–18 in aviation.

Inspired by the Tuskegee Airmen — the barrier-breaking African American fighter pilots of World War II — Red Tail Academy carries their legacy forward by creating structured pathways for students to pursue flight. From ground school to mentorship, the program is designed to open doors that once seemed closed.

Together, we are shaping a new generation of aviators built on excellence, opportunity, and history.

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Discovering Strength in the Sky

For Kaila Batengna-Mutbi, flight training was both challenging and deeply rewarding. The process tested her limits and taught her to trust her abilities.

That experience built a new confidence and a lasting connection to aviation—one she now shares by supporting others as they begin their own journey at Red Tail Academy.

Programs & Camps that Lift Futures

Red Tail Academy offers aviation access for all ages — from curious 8-year-olds to future airline pilots. Through Early Birds, youth flying programs, professional flight tracks, maintenance scholarship paths, summer STEM camps, and mobile outreach, Red Tail builds aviation opportunity at every stage.

Aspire is proud to power these programs, bringing real aircraft, simulators, and instructor resources to help turn students into aviators.

SEE THE PROGRAMS

Support Our Mission

Red Tail Academy thrives because of the mentors, ambassadors, and supporters who stand behind our students. Whether you share your time, your voice, or your resources, every effort helps open doors for the next generation of aviators.

Aspire is proud to amplify these opportunities — connecting the aviation community to lift students higher.

  • Mentor — Guide students and share your experience, both in and beyond aviation.
  • Ambassador — Spread the word and champion diversity in aviation through your networks.
  • Sponsor & Volunteer — Fuel dreams by breaking down financial and access barriers.
GET INVOLVED