Quit using CODE speak!!! What is a T-Bird? I know...Look it up....I would rather here how you describe it 
Since there are so many aviation experts in the forums, it’s natural to assume some level of knowledge. Please do ask questions. More than happy to provide more detail.
Crews often referred to the T-33 as the “T Bird”.
When the F-80 became operational, the prop fighter guys were having problems with the jet’s centrifical flow engine, especially in the traffic pattern. The centrifical flow engine had a unique characteristic. When the throttle was pushed forward, there was a delay in the engine thrust because of the spool up time, unlike what the high powered prop planes pilots of the time were used to. The result, a lot of accidents in the traffic pattern.
So, it was decided to make a trainer version of the F-80, the T-33. This was done by putting a 33 inch (if memory serves me well) extension in the fuselage and a duplicate cockpit/controls, except the rear cockpit had the much hated instrument flying hood, normally stowed behind the rear ejection seat. There were a set of bungee cords attached to the front center canopy bow of the rear cockpit and the rear canopy frame. These bungee cords were more commonly used by the rear cockpit guy to hold his head up on long cross country legs whilst taking a nap. It was matter of taking a couple of cords on each side and hooking them under the sides of the helmet. Whola! A neck stretcher. Never did get a kink in my neck.
Here’s a good view of the instrument flying hood or “Bag” and the bungee cords.
And no that ain’t me. This is me a couple of years ago.
In the days before color photography was invented.
So with this new “Stretched F-80”, as we called it, there was a more effective and safe way of transitioning from props to jets.
Remember, it’s a stupid question if it isn't asked.
Any other acronyms you have questions about?
