 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (June 2008) |
| Shuttle Training Aircraft | |
|---|---|
 | |
| General information | |
| Type | Advanced trainer |
| Manufacturer | Grumman |
| Status | Retired |
| Primary user | NASA |
| Number built | 4 |
| History | |
| Retired | 2012 |
| Developed from | Grumman Gulfstream II |
The Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is a former NASA training vehicle that duplicated the Space Shuttle's approach profile and handling qualities, allowing pilots to simulate Shuttle landings under controlled conditions before attempting the task on board the orbiter. The STA was also flown to assess weather conditions just prior to Space Shuttle launches and landings.