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Flight Instructor’s Severe Stutter Disappears When He Flies

Jonathan Smith was told he could never be a pilot because of his severe stuttering issue, but he overcame it and is now helping other people with disabilities. Jonathan Smith
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Jonathan Smith, despite a severe stutter and initial rejections, pursued his dream of flying by obtaining a Sport Pilot license, which bypasses the FAA medical exam requirement.
  • He discovered his stutter completely disappeared while flying, enabling him to successfully pass his check ride and eventually become a Certified Flight Instructor for Sport Pilots (CFI-S).
  • Now an instructor, Smith uses his experience to inspire and offer free flights to people with disabilities, encouraging them to discover the joy of light-sport aviation.
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Jonathan Smith always dreamed of being a pilot, but with a severe stuttering disorder, he was told it was impossible for him to earn a pilot’s license. In 2010, he reached out to multiple flight schools in New Jersey, but was turned down by each one.

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