Mobile, Ala. – AAA USA – the joint venture of DRAKKAR and Daher that is a leading aerospace, industrial and ground transportation service company based in Mobile, Alabama – today announce the donation of a full-scale maintenance training aircraft to Saraland High School in support of this educational institution’s aviation program. The AAA USA-financed donation is a retired Piper PA-28 general aviation aircraft.

It will provide Saraland High School students with an actual airframe to work on, offering invaluable and realistic hands-on experience that bridges the gap between classroom learning and industry needs. Saraland High School is located just north of the AAA USA headquarters in Mobile, and the school’s Airframe Technology program enables students to learn about the construction and operation of aircraft and their systems, thereby opening possibilities for young adults to seek future careers as mechanics, technicians and in other professions. USA AAA and Saraland High School will hold a hand-over and dedication ceremony with the donated aircraft on Thursday, March 20.

“As the aerospace industry continues to thrive along the U.S. Central Gulf Coast – particularly in Mobile – AAA USA is reinforcing its commitment to the local community through job creation, economic development, and – perhaps most importantly – education,” said Perry C. Rucker, AAA USA’s Vice President & Chief Operating Officer. “By investing in workforce development, and in partnership with Saraland High School and Coastal Alabama Community College, AAA USA aims to raise awareness of the career opportunities available to students beyond graduation.

In addition to AAA USA’s donation of the maintenance training aircraft, the company has introduced the “Wings of Opportunity” aviation scholarship for Saraland High School students. This further demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting the next generation of aerospace professionals. The scholarship will be awarded annually to selected recipients. Applications are available through Saraland High School, with this year’s awards ceremony scheduled for May 13 at 6 p.m. (Central Time) at the school’s campus.