PHILADELPHIA (Dec. 13, 2023) – The Philadelphia campus of Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) celebrated the unveiling of a General Electric (GE) CF6-6D engine, donated by FedEx. The GE CF6-6D, a member of the longest-running jet engine program in commercial aviation, flew on 11 different aircraft being converted between wing and tail engine. It finished its career on aircraft 394, where it was installed in March 2020 and flew until it was retired from FedEx’s fleet of McDonnell Douglas DC-10s in late 2022.
At over 15 feet long, the CF6-6D is the Philadelphia campus’ largest training aid and will offer students a unique opportunity to work on a larger scale commercial engine during their program. AIM offers a 21-month Aviation Maintenance Technician program that prepares students for entry-level employment within the aviation maintenance industry. Students learn the specialized skills necessary to work on structures, powerplants, aircraft systems, flight-controlled systems, and engine systems, and become eligible and prepared for certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic. Access to a variety of training aids will enhance their skills and prepare them for future careers in the aviation industry.
“We are thrilled to receive this engine donation from FedEx,” said Stephanie Makhoul, Campus Executive Director at AIM Philadelphia. “This generous contribution will greatly benefit our students, allowing them to gain practical experience on a larger scale. We are grateful for FedEx’s continued support and commitment to our students.”
This significant contribution not only provides students with invaluable hands-on experience but also strengthens the longstanding partnership between AIM and FedEx. FedEx executives were at the celebration, further highlighting the bond between the two organizations. Over the years, FedEx executives have served as keynote speakers during AIM graduations and have also hired AIM graduates, recognizing the quality education and training provided by the school.
