On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, representatives from FedEx, including John Borkowski, the Managing Director Airport Line Maintenance East, and three local representatives (including Aviation High School alums), as well as students, staff, parents, and school administration, celebrated the donation of a FedEx GE CF6 engine to be used by Aviation High School seniors and fifth-year students to enhance their powerplant technical skills and industry readiness.
John Borkowski addressed the attendees and students at the event and said, “Today, we gather here to celebrate and support the incredible work being done at Aviation High School. With this donation paired with the quality education and training of aspiring aviators, we hope to empower you to reach for the skies and fulfill your dreams. But none of this would be possible without the continuous support and generosity of individuals and organizations like FedEx and other partners alike.
The GE CF6 engine family remains the longest-running jet engine program in commercial aviation, having entered service in 1971 as GE’s first successful powerplant for the commercial widebody aircraft segment. The CF6-80C2 continues in production today.
The donated engine originated on a DC10 operated by Continental Airlines aircraft N68054. FedEx acquired it in March 1980. When it came into service with FedEx, it was given tail number 054 and converted to an MD10. The engine was on 12 different aircraft with TSN (Time Since New) of 59,391 hours, or 90 trips to the moon and back.
“Aviation is a field that demands precision, knowledge, and passion. It requires access to cutting-edge equipment, modern aircraft, and experienced instructors. With our help today, we have been able to bridge this gap and help create an environment where the students can learn from the best, gaining skills that will shape their future careers,” said Borkowski. “By investing in your aviation school, we are not only investing in the dreams of young individuals but also in the growth and progress of our industry. We are helping shape the next generation of mechanics, engineers, pilots, and aviation professionals who will lead us into the future.
The donation will allow the enhancement of Aviation High School’s curriculum, bringing with it the support of industry experts and providing hands-on experiences on current flying equipment that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
“Every donation, no matter how big or small, has a tremendous impact. It creates opportunities, inspires innovation, and nurtures a passion for aviation in the hearts of the students. This contribution helps us maintain our position in recruiting from one of the top-tier aviation schools and ensures that deserving individuals continue to receive a world-class education,” John Borkowski added.
