AeroShell team is now Titan

For nearly 40 years, pilots of the North American aerobatic team have entertained airshow audiences with their eye-catching, tight-formation aerobatic spectacles in World War II-era North American AT–6 Texans.

The team was founded in 1984 by Alan Henley and Steve Gustafson and began flying under the AeroShell Aerobatic Team name in 2001.

“AeroShell has been a wonderful sponsor and absolutely awesome to work with all these years,” Gustafson said. “We have nothing but great things to say about their support, their products, and all the good people that represent them around the world. It’s been a wonderful relationship, and I’m proud to say we’re parting on good terms.”

This change of title sponsors is significant for the team following a more than 20-year relationship with AeroShell; however, the team assures fans that performances will continue to bring the same breathtaking excitement spectators have come to anticipate and enjoy over the years.

“We just do what we do and try to give the fans and show promoters a great experience with a great show,” Mark Henley, team lead, said. “We love it, and it’s very special to be able to open a new chapter even after all this time.”

“Having our brand associated with this team is a perfect match,” Titan Aviation Fuels Chairman Buddy Stallings said. “These ‘gentlemen pilots’ represent all the qualities we want to promote at Titan: precision operations, a high-quality product, professional service, and extraordinary work ethic. We’re thrilled to be flying with them.”

Alan Henley’s twin brother Mark joined the team in 1997 and became team leader after Alan was injured in a nonaviation accident in 2008. Henley is joined by right wing pilot Bryan Regan; left wing pilot Steve Gustafson; and Jimmy Fordham, who flies the slot, or trail position.

“We’ve known Buddy and the Titan company for many years,” Henley said. “We are excited about our new relationship and are looking forward to representing all the great folks that make this company such a quality organization across America.”

The Titan Aerobatic Team will debut its new colors in March 2024, marking its fortieth year in airshows, with new liveries, uniforms, and promotional swag. The team will be joining the DC Flyover in May 2024, where aircraft representing chapters of general aviation will fly over the National Mall.

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