The GameBird GB1 is a two-seat, carbon-composite aerobatic airplane built by Game Composites. It combines a 303-horsepower Lycoming engine, a four-blade propeller and an aerobatic envelope of up to +10/-10 g at the approved aerobatic weight. It is designed for advanced aerobatic training and competition, but its speed, loading limits and operating restrictions matter just as much as the headline performance.
GameBird GB1 specifications
| Specification | Certified value |
|---|---|
| Seats | Two in tandem; pilot operates from the rear seat |
| Construction | Primarily carbon- and glass-fiber composite |
| Engine | Lycoming AEIO-580-B1A |
| Rated power | 303 hp / 225 kW |
| Propeller | Four-blade MT-Propeller MTV-14 |
| Wingspan | 25.3 ft / 7.7 m |
| Length | 22.6 ft / 6.9 m |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 2,200 lb / 999 kg |
| Aerobatic weight limit | 1,940 lb / 880 kg |
| Aerobatic load factors | +10/-10 g at or below 1,940 lb |
| Never-exceed speed | 234 KIAS |
| Maximum operating altitude | 15,000 ft / 4,572 m |
These figures come from the EASA type-certificate data sheet, not a sales listing. Individual aircraft equipment and operating limitations must still be checked in the approved flight manual.
What makes the GB1 a GameBird?
The GB1 was designed around unlimited-category aerobatics while retaining a second seat. Its tandem cockpit puts one occupant behind the other, reducing frontal area compared with side-by-side seating. Composite construction allows the airframe to combine aerodynamic shaping with the strength required for repeated aerobatic loads.
The Lycoming AEIO-580 is an aerobatic, fuel-injected six-cylinder engine. Its 303 hp drives a four-blade MT propeller. That pairing gives the aircraft the power and control response needed for vertical maneuvers, rapid rolls and competition sequences. The FAA lists the GameBird as a fixed-wing, single-reciprocating-engine aircraft under the ICAO designator GB1.
Understanding the +10/-10 g claim
The familiar “10-g airplane” description needs an important qualification. The EASA certificate permits +10/-10 g only when takeoff weight is no more than 1,940 pounds. From 1,941 through the 2,200-pound maximum takeoff weight, the certified limit is +6/-6 g.
The aerobatic configuration also requires empty wing fuel tanks and an empty baggage compartment. With fuel in the wing tanks, aerobatics and intentional spins are prohibited. Those restrictions explain why maximum takeoff weight and maximum aerobatic weight are not interchangeable.
GameBird GB1 speeds explained
- 175 KIAS maneuvering speed: the certified operating maneuvering speed listed in the type certificate.
- 200 KIAS maximum structural cruising speed: the upper end of the normal operating range.
- 234 KIAS never-exceed speed: a structural operating limit, not a target speed.
These are indicated airspeeds and certified limitations. They should not be confused with promotional cruise-speed claims, ground speed or the speed spectators perceive during an airshow pass.
Is the GameBird GB1 a competition airplane or trainer?
It can serve both roles. EASA describes it as a full-aerobatic two-seater intended for aerobatic training and competition at all levels. The second seat lets a qualified instructor demonstrate and monitor maneuvers, while the structure and control system support high-level competition flying.
That does not make it a primary trainer. Pilots need the appropriate licensing, endorsements, aerobatic instruction and aircraft-specific transition training. Aircraft suitability also depends on weight, balance, equipment and the limitations in its approved flight manual.
How to recognize a GameBird GB1 at an airshow
Look for a compact low-wing taildragger with a long clear canopy, tandem seating and a four-blade propeller. The broad vertical tail and short, purposeful proportions distinguish it from many Extra and Pitts designs. Paint schemes vary by owner, so the aircraft’s shape and the “GB1” identification are more reliable clues than color.
During a display, a GB1 may perform vertical rolls, snaps, tumbles and rapid direction changes. The exact routine depends on the pilot, waivers, altitude, weather and show box. A performance by one operator should not be treated as the aircraft’s universal routine.
GB1 certification history
EASA certified the GB1 on April 12, 2017 in the CS-23 aerobatic category. The type certificate transferred to Game Composites LLC in Bentonville, Arkansas in March 2019, when the FAA became the state-of-design authority. EASA’s transfer notice also records FAA Type Certificate A00073CE.
The certification record is more useful than uncited specification roundups because it separates approved limits from estimates and marketing language.
GameBird GB1 FAQ
What does GB1 stand for?
It is the model designation for the first GameBird design from Game Composites. GB1 is also its current ICAO aircraft type designator.
How much horsepower does a GameBird have?
The certified Lycoming AEIO-580-B1A installation is rated at 303 horsepower, or 225 kW.
How many people can fly in a GB1?
Two. The seats are arranged in tandem, with the required pilot station in the rear and one passenger or trainee in front.
Can the GameBird really pull 10 g?
Its certified aerobatic envelope is +10/-10 g only at or below 1,940 pounds. At higher approved weights through 2,200 pounds, the certified limit is +6/-6 g.
What is the GameBird GB1’s top speed?
The most meaningful certified upper limit is its 234 KIAS never-exceed speed. That is an operating limitation, not a recommended cruise speed.
Where can I see a GameBird fly?
Performers and schedules change. Start with the current airshow schedule, then verify the final performer list on the event organizer’s official website.
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