Register

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, uses her unique position in aviation to challenge the global perception of disability, highlighting how the word "unable" limits opportunities, especially outside the U.S.
  • Her international travels reveal significant disparities in opportunities for people with disabilities worldwide, prompting her to leverage her platform for advocacy.
  • Through her flights and speaking engagements across various countries, she actively promotes disability awareness and inclusion, inspiring others and demonstrating that disability does not mean inability.
See a mistake? Contact us.

“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.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE