The Armless Pilot Finds a Kindred Spirit

While at an Arizona fly-in, the author learns of a seaplane pilot dealing with a similar disability.

Jessica Cox

Friday, March 11, 2022 at 10:23 AM ET

Verified

Ben Shipps' arms have 50 percent functionality compared to the average arm. [Courtesy: Ben Shipps]

Key Takeaways:

Ben Shipps is a seaplane pilot and designated examiner who overcame significant physical disabilities, being born with only 50% arm functionality, to pursue his aviation dreams.
Despite initial medical challenges and discouragement, he persistently earned multiple pilot certifications, including commercial and CFI, and an unrestricted first-class medical.
His story serves as an inspiration, emphasizing that passion and determination can help individuals surmount any "deterrents" in achieving their goals.

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During my trip last month to the Copperstate Fly-In in Buckeye, Arizona, I was hanging around my Ercoupe, N26R. A pilot named Bruce saw me, and he said to me, “I know who you are. You are that Ercoupe pilot. Have you ever been down to Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base in Winter Haven, Florida? There is a pilot there without hands who trains people to get their seaplane rating.”

I was stunned—I knew I had to meet this person.