Dallas-Based Breaking Down Barriers Receives USD50,000 JetBlue Foundation Grant to Purchase Redbird Flight Simulator

USA – Breaking Down Barriers (BDB), a Dallas-based nonprofit dedicated to eliminating barriers to commercial airline pilot careers for underserved communities, has received a US$50,000 grant from the JetBlue Foundation to purchase a Redbird flight simulator — expanding the organisation's flight training capabilities and community aviation education programming.

• The Redbird simulator will be integrated into BDB's flight training programme, providing students with realistic, hands-on experience that builds foundational aviation skills. The device will support scenario-based training modules enabling students to practise real-world flight scenarios and decision-making processes.
• Beyond serving aspiring pilots enrolled in BDB's programmes, the simulator will power community outreach initiatives targeting K-12 students and adult learners through scheduled workshops introducing aviation concepts, inspiring interest in STEM careers, and creating pathways to aviation education for underserved participants. Simulator training and community programming are planned for launch in Summer 2026.
• BDB has been building its aviation education and training infrastructure. In December 2025, BDB launched a strategic collaboration with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), making three ERAU Worldwide Campus degree programmes available to BDB pilot training students — including the Bachelor of Science in Pilot Operations, Associate in Science in Aeronautics, and Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics. The partnership integrates academic pathways with BDB's hands-on flight training.

Statements

• "We are deeply grateful to the JetBlue Foundation for this impactful support. This flight simulator will not only elevate our training program but also expand access for young people and adults who might not otherwise have the opportunity to engage with aviation in such an immersive way," said Dana Donati, CEO of Breaking Down Barriers.

Source: Breaking Down Barriers