CT High Schoolers Build An Aircraft With Help From Local Flight School

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Students from Bridgeport's Bassick High School are constructing their second 12-foot-long aircraft as part of the Tango Flight program, an educational initiative that began at the school in 2022. The effort builds on the successful completion and test flight of their first student-built, two-seat airplane in July 2024.

Working in partnership with Three Wing Aviation at Sikorsky Memorial Airport, students helped test and certify their first aircraft, experiencing the final stages of the aviation process firsthand.

"The first plane was an extraordinary achievement, and now our students are building on that success," said Aaron Hollander, CEO of First Aviation Services and founder of Tango Flight. "Their dedication, passion, and persistence continue to inspire."

The second plane is expected to be completed by 2026. In addition to aircraft assembly, students are gaining hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering and math, as well as skills such as sheet metal work, riveting and drilling—preparing them for potential careers in the aviation industry.

The program will soon benefit from enhanced facilities. Bassick High School is set to open a new campus in 2026, featuring dedicated spaces to support the growth of Tango Flight and other technical programs.

"Seeing our students work together to build and fly an airplane has been an incredibly rewarding experience," said Principal Dr. Joseph Raiola. "With the new school opening in 2026, we are confident that our students will have even more opportunities to succeed."

Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery highlighted the wider impact of the initiative.

"Tango Flight shows how innovative educational opportunities inspire students to pursue their dreams," Avery said. "We are working alongside our community to ensure students have the resources they need, and we will continue to fight for opportunities that help them succeed."