Ferrying a Classic J-3 Cub

Pilot Aubrey Clark, 21, was warned that the 450 nm journey from North Carolina to Sun ‘n Fun would be a challenge.

Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 12:12 PM ET

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Aubrey Clark, 21, started flying in 2020 just after graduating from high school. She holds a commercial certificate for both single- and multiengine airplanes, and has an instrument rating as well as a tailwheel endorsement. [Credit: Meg Godlewski]

Key Takeaways:

21-year-old pilot Aubrey G. Clark successfully flew a freshly-restored, unique 1939 J-3 Cub (black with yellow accents, no electrical system) over 1,000 miles from North Carolina to Sun 'n Fun in Florida, where the aircraft won an award for "Most Unique."
The multi-day, challenging flight in the slow Cub taught Clark valuable lessons in adapting to weather conditions and "listening" to the aircraft, enhancing her practical flying skills.
Clark's rapid progression in aviation, from starting flight training after high school to becoming a commercial pilot and co-owning an Aeronca Champ, underscores her dedication, with a future goal of missionary aviation.

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If you have certain skills, the proper connections and are in the right place at the right time, you can expect to have some fun adventures in aviation, according to 21-year-old Aubrey G. Clark, of Morganton, North Carolina.

In March, Clark had the opportunity to fly a freshly-restored 1939 J-3 Cub, NC23438, from Foothills Regional Airport (KMRN) in Morganton, North Carolina, to Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL), in Lakeland, Florida, for Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo held March 28 to April 2.