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Changing the World One Flight at a Time

Opportunities in aviation for people with disabilities are rare in other countries compared to the U.S.

Pilot Jessica Cox, getting a little jet time in her log book on a flight to Guatemala. [Courtesy: Jessica Cox]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author, an armless pilot, leverages her unique achievement in aviation to powerfully challenge the global perception of "inability" associated with disability.
  • Her international travels highlight a significant disparity in opportunities and social acceptance for people with disabilities, particularly women, in many countries compared to the U.S.
  • She uses her platform as a pilot and motivational speaker to advocate for disability awareness, inclusion, and policy change worldwide, inspiring individuals and influencing leaders.
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“Unable!” That one word is so powerful in aviation. Yet, it’s almost a dirty word when I’m out of the airplane. I’ve learned that the worldview of many people with disabilities has been defined by others with that single word. I wish that wasn’t the case.

I got into aviation as a hobby and became a pilot before becoming a multinational motivational speaker. When I started seeing more of the world because of speaking invitations, I realized that general aviation is regarded as a novelty in most countries. People don’t just wake up one day and set out to become a pilot.

Jessica Cox

Born without arms, Jessica Cox is the first and only licensed armless pilot in aviation history. When she’s not flying a 1946 Ercoupe in Arizona, Jessica trains in Taekwondo, mentors children with limb differences, and travels the world as a keynote speaker.

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