Commemorative Air Force Soars to New Heights with Acquisition of a TT-1 Pinto Jet

Dallas, Texas – October 26, 2023- The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its historic aircraft collection, the Temco TT-1 Pinto registered N4486L. This is a notable acquisition for the Commemorative Air Force as the aircraft is not only post-World War II-era but also a jet.

This unique acquisition reflects the organization's unwavering commitment to preserving aviation history and ensuring that future generations can experience the thrill of flight aboard these living legends.



The TT-1 Pinto is an experimental jet trainer aircraft produced during the 1950s. On October 18, 1955, the U.S. Navy released a Request for Proposals calling for a new primary jet trainer to replace the Beechcraft T-34. The Pinto was designed to provide a transition platform for naval aviators moving from propeller-driven aircraft to jet-powered ones. The Pinto played a vital role in training the men and women who would become the backbone of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviation. However, by the spring of 1960, the Navy elected to end its Jet training program.

The aircraft has been assigned to a newly established Super Pinto Sponsor Group. Rick Bell, one of the aircraft sponsors, said, “We are thrilled to operate this exceptional aircraft; it will enhance our ability to tell the story of military aviation history beyond World War II. The Pinto is also a great addition to our educational and historical outreach efforts."

The Pinto Sponsor Group will soon unveil the TT-1 Pinto, which will be based at the CAF hangar in Memphis, and will divide it time between Memphis, Pensacola, and Dallas. The group also hopes to be able to start offering living history flights in the Pinto next year.

For more information about the Commemorative Air Force, its collection of vintage military aircraft, and upcoming events, please visit https://commemorativeairforce.org/aircraft.

Share this page!