An American Aviation Yankee similar to the one recently donated to Nashua Community College. Courtesy photo

NASHUA – After more than 40 years of ownership by three retired U.S. Air Force pilots, an American Aviation Yankee two-seater aircraft was recently transported 60 miles from Rochester to a hangar at Boire Field at Nashua Airport.

The aircraft will now be used in the Aviation Technology program at Nashua Community College.

“We are grateful for the generous donation made by the Gonzales family, with support from the McNeil and Phoenix families, to give the plane that brought so much joy to their families a second life to train the aviation technologists of the future,” said NCC President Dr. James Keane.

The plane was purchased in the mid-1980s by Retired Lt. Col. Donald Gonzales, Retired Maj. Edward McNeil and Retired Col. Robert Phoenix. During the next four decades, the pilots used the plane for flying lessons as well as for transporting friends and family. Phoenix’s son, Thomas, also used the aircraft for aerial photography. One of his pictures, taken of Kennebunkport, Maine, was showcased in the White House during the presidency of George H.W. Bush.

Gonzales, a former aeronautics instructor, was the plane’s last owner until he died in December 2024. It was his children, Robert, Melissa, Michelle and Roxanne, who decided to donate the plane to NCC, citing their father’s love for education.

Retired Lt. Col. Donald Gonzales during his service in the U.S. Air Force. Gonzales was the plane's last surviving owner. His four children recently donated it to Nashua Community College. Courtesy photo

“We knew that NCC had an aviation technology program, so it seemed like a good fit,” said Roxanne. “I think all three of the owners would have been ecstatic to know that their legacy continues as their plane is used to teach aviation maintenance to a new generation.”

The college’s Aviation Technology program consists of a 21-month curriculum covering topics such as reciprocating engines, turbines, fuel systems and propellers.

James Mitchell, the Aviation Technology program coordinator at NCC, said it is “essential” to have a working aircraft available to Airframe and Powerplant student mechanics who are pursuing their licenses or certifications.

NCC is currently the only college in New Hampshire that has an Aviation Technology program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. The school will also be launching an Air Traffic Control program this fall.