Nervous anticipation filled the air at Gulf Shores International Airport at Jack Edwards Field as Gulf Shores High School Aviation Academy students achieved a historical milestone by successfully flying the light-wight experimental aircraft that they built for the first time. The event took place this morning, Wednesday, May 1, at 10:00 AM, drawing a crowd of students, parents, educators, aviation enthusiasts, and media.

Gulf Shores City Schools Superintendent, Dr. Matt Akin, and Alabama State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Eric Mackey, were present, with Dr. Mackey having the honor of taking the historic inaugural flight. Today’s event marked a major milestone for the students and program administrators. It also highlighted the practical application of their academic training in aerospace engineering, aircraft maintenance, and flight mechanics.

The Gulf Shores High School Aviation Academy, which is open to all high school students, offers a unique educational path into the world of aviation. Students engaged in the program are provided the opportunity to earn their drone pilot certification and prepare for the FAA private pilot license exam.

Aviation Academy Instructor Haley Kellogg, a Gulf Shores High School alumnus and commercial pilot, has played a pivotal role in mentoring the students. Her dedication is particularly focused on encouraging young women to explore aviation careers, integrating hands-on learning with academic studies. Haley piloted the first flight with Dr. Mackey at today’s event.

The program enjoys robust support from local aviation partners and mentors, including Gulf Air Center, Gulf Shores International Airport, Aeropro, and Tango Flight, contributing to its success and sustainability. 

According to Cody Roads, a 2023 graduate who is an instrument certified pilot and mentor to the Gulf Shores Aviation Program told OBA News that Tango Flight provided the kit to Gulf Shores High School and the assembled airplane will be returned to them in June. Roads also said that they already have the aircraft sold. 

The first flight event included tours of the hangar labs, presentations by the students, and discussions about the program's impact on their educational and career prospects.

For further details on the Gulf Shores High School Aviation Academy, please contact Jessica Sampley, Academies and Career Tech Director, at jsampley@gsboe.org.

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