After her successful solo flight last May, Jessica Cox proved the sky is no limit when she earned her Sport Pilot license flying an Ercoupe plane with only her feet. Jessica was born without arms 25 years ago.
On October 10, FAA examiner Terry Brandt gave Jessica the thumbs-up on her check ride at the San Manuel Airport, just outside Tucson. “I showed him my best. After we got up in the air, the wind shifted and we hit some turbulence, but I flew through it just fine,” said Jessica.
When Jessica did a particularly good job on a short field landing, the examiner complimented her, saying, “Nice landing.”
Greeted with hugs from her parents William and Inez Cox, and enthusiastic spectators Jack McIntyre, Jack Traweek, Dave Knudson, as well as another FFA examiner, Jessica beamed, “I gave my best performance ever!”
Jessica Cox puts on her headset.
54 responses so far ↓
John Wren // October 15, 2008 at 9:46 pm |
Way to go Jessica! You are an inspirations!
Tom Rampton // October 15, 2008 at 11:13 pm |
When I was very young (almost 60 years ago and I’m 64 now) my dad and I would sometimes fly an Ercoupe. I remember that I loved that airplane, though I haven’t flown (or even flown in) an Ercoupe since. And I have over 2000 hours as a pilot. Congrats on your license, Jessica!
Shmuel Shimshoni // October 15, 2008 at 11:22 pm |
Jessica
The first thing that comes to my mind while reading about your solo flight experience – “What a wonderful feet!!!”
Shmuel
Jack Henzie // October 16, 2008 at 12:15 am |
Aren’t clouds grand, Jessica?
Happy landings, Darlin’,
JLH
Anita Johnston // October 16, 2008 at 5:59 am |
Jessica, that’s a fantastic accomplishment! I hope to see you again when I’m in Phoenix at the next NSA event. I remember our fun dinner we had a few years ago. You’re a great inspiration.
Agnes Paulsen // October 16, 2008 at 7:58 am |
I am so impressed with your fantastic accomplishment. You are truly an amazing person.
Ron Andersen // October 17, 2008 at 4:45 am |
Jessica,
You are an inspiration to everyone, proving what can be done if you try hard enough. I’ve heard that flying an airplane is approximately seven times as complex as driving a car. Because of this, getting a pilot’s license is an accomplishment that most people wouldn’t even attempt.
Best of luck,
Ron
EAA #626493
AOPA #01369878
Michael Amtmann // October 17, 2008 at 2:45 pm |
JESSICA, THAT’S GREAT!!!
Always happy landings
Michael
Dan Sweeny // October 18, 2008 at 4:02 am |
Jessica,
What an American role model you are! As a pilot myself, I am always trying to get others interested in the wonderful world of aviation but hear so often from them, “I just don’t think I could do it.” I will use your story to hopefully inspire them. I wonder how many people silently said to themselves that they didn’t think you could do it either. But I’m sure they were only the people that didn’t know you well. Those that know you well had no doubts. Keep inspiring others, you are blessed so much more than many of us and, for some reason, I think you know it.
Rodolfo // October 24, 2008 at 12:20 pm |
Jessica, tus logros me emocionan hasta las lagrimas, tu eres un gran ejemplo para millones de personas en todo el mundo, de que todo se puede hacer cuando uno pone empeno y sacrificio, exitos y un gran abrazo de corazon
Graham Vaughan // November 3, 2008 at 11:25 am |
Jessica,
Congratulations on gaining your pilots licence, That really is a brilliant achievment, You are a great inspiration to others. There has been some people that have started to learn to fly and have given up for various reasons, But you did it, Great, Keep on flying.
Graham Vaughan PPL&UK & USA
Arnaud Gallois // November 6, 2008 at 12:18 am |
Hello Jessica,
I’m french, and I passed the Private Pilot License test two days ago, but compared to your test, I think mine was a piece of cake ! Seriously, you are impressive. I would say that it’s not *that* easy with two hands, so I’m very impressed about what you did ! Please let me send you my best congratulations
Best regards,
Arnaud
Don Ramsey // November 14, 2008 at 1:39 pm |
Congratulations Jessica; Happy flying, and remember to always make as many safe landings as take-offs.
From Don and Dee at Nature’s Hideaway.
laurent lambert // November 19, 2008 at 9:14 am |
Hi Jessica
Fighting to odds is always something i encourage.
I’m very impressed and happy for you.
If you swing by the bay area I’ll take you for a bay tour, we don’t have ercoupe but we’ll manage.
regards,
laurent
Ben Lyons ( Ireland) // November 24, 2008 at 8:21 am |
Congratulations Jessicia,
I am very impressed with your acievement. I am the proud owner of a ercoupe myself and I am fully aware of how difficult they are to fly. If you are ever in Ireland it would be a privlidge to meet you.
BEN LYONS
Ron & Linda Love // November 25, 2008 at 3:48 pm |
Congratuations Jessica,
We, Ercoupers are proud of you! If you ever get to Missouri, stop in and see us. We have a 1900 foot turf runway in southwest MO. Timberline Airpark O2MU. Happy flying.
Ron & Linda Love
Dwayne // November 26, 2008 at 9:45 pm |
I am familiar with the area you live. I got my private at Ryan and did my instrument at TIA. I thought I had hurdles. After flying for more than 10 years, I lost a leg to an industrial accident. People thought I was crazy for wanting to still fly. They don’t understand the love of flying, or how it might just be the motivation we need to do better. I remember the long road of learning to walk again. I remember the seemingly endless flight to Scottsdale to get the demonstrated ability waiver, and the many months it took to just get the appointment. I thought I had overcome something that few could. But having been through that, and understanding the hurdles, all I can say is “Good for you!” My motto is this, “Your body will adjust, if you allow it to happen.” When I step out of my airplane wearing shorts, people always ask questions and make comments. I just explain my love of flying, and that it was the flying that aided in my recovery. I know how tough it was for me to re-earn my priveledge of flight. I just can’t imagine the stories you must have. If you ever want someone to speak beside you, or help with your journey, I would be honored. I fly to Nogales sometimes and would love to meet you on one of our trips. “Good Job” doesn’t even begin to express my happiness for you, or the congratulations you deserve. I truly understand your love of flying as my childhood stories are similar. (I never dreamed of being super woman.) I fly back to Arizona a few times each year and would be glad to fly somewhere with you to get a burger or just talk with you. Let me know.
Dwayne
Gary Ervin // November 27, 2008 at 12:03 am |
Congratulations, Jessica,
As an early wheelchair pilot (1971), I can appreciate the obstacles you’ve overcome. If you are ever in the Modesto, CA area, I have a friend with an Ercoupe who I know would give you a tour of the area.
Keep the blue side up!!
David Rodriguez // November 27, 2008 at 1:46 pm |
Jessica,
Fantastic story. I am a pilot who flys out of KTUS and KRYN. Perhaps I’ll see you around.
~David
Kevin // November 28, 2008 at 10:37 am |
I have a pilot certificate too, and what you have done brings tears of joy for you to my eyes and soul! You are such an inspiration and an example to always keep in mind when facing difficult things ahead.
You bless us all!
Kevin
little marky // November 28, 2008 at 9:38 pm |
I am so proud to be a pilot with you and people of your caliber . I own a beechcraft but the ercoupe has always been one of my favorites .And hope to buy one some day .More manufactures should use it’s design . Great plane .
Please take care , and do more interviews so we can follow your adventures .
Wishing you the best of luck . Mark
Gunther Koblmiller // November 30, 2008 at 11:35 am |
Jessica,
I read about your accomplishments in AOPA magazine. You are a truly amazing person.
If you ever out in the Bay Area I would be privileged to meet you – I fly out of C83. Congratulations to your success.
~Gunther
Pratyush // December 3, 2008 at 1:31 pm |
Oh My God! That is so awesome. You can be an astronaut now! Go for it! Hats off..
Mark Carino // December 4, 2008 at 4:33 am |
I’ll fly with you anytime.
Are you ready to try helicopters?
Joe Lamattina // December 5, 2008 at 7:09 am |
Jessica,
“Actions speak louder that words”.
Your determination and accomplishments are an inspiration to all of us.
Keep on flying.
Neal Martin // December 5, 2008 at 7:36 am |
Jessica, you are amazing!! What an inspiration you must be to everyone you encounter! I am a right arm amputee and I thought I had it rough! I lost my arm, above the elbow, only weeks out of flight school. It took me a year to get my demonstraited ability waiver and get back to full time flight instruction. I passed my multi-commercial instrument ride in February 2005. If you ever get to Hershey, PA, check out Reigle Airport (58N) and tell ‘um to give me a shout!!
God Bless!!
Neal
Steve F. // December 5, 2008 at 8:21 am |
Way to go Jessica. Your story is a true inspiration to all, especially those of us who fly.
This is a lesson to all of us to never give up on our dreams, no matter what obstacles need to be overcome.
I wish you huge success in the future.
From one addicted Pilot to another. “Congrats!”
Safe, and Happy Flying,
Steve F.
Joseph Okon OTR/L // December 5, 2008 at 10:05 am |
Our Dearest Jessica, your exemplary courage, and tenacity make you a leader that can lead by example. Your exhibited outstanding results in the cockpit as well as in both the athletic and academic arenas, are a reflection of your time tested patience and will power. A virtue, to be admired by all. In your relatively young life, you have fine tuned and solidified your God given gifts to make you a highly formidable leader who will continue to motivate, stimulate, and bring others to positive levels well beyond their fears,and societies sometimes gloomy expectations. I have hope and faith, as an occupational therapist and a private pilot that you will make a difference in the lives of many that will hear of your deeds and causes. As you go through life’s journey with a smile. Please remember to keep on smiling, just as God has smiled and shines on you…..
Kevin Lee // December 5, 2008 at 11:53 am |
Jessica,
Fantastic accomplishment, congratulations from a fellow Ercoupe pilot.
Whats next ? you go girl !!!!
My Best Regards,
Kevin N2583H
Johannes Martin // December 6, 2008 at 7:43 pm |
Well done Jessica! You are an Eagle soaring above turkeys!!! It is my pleasure to be a member of the aviation family with you. I hope your amazing life continues to inspire others for decades to come. I hope to meet U on a tarmac someday! -Joe- A&P Stupid…I mean Student Pilot
Gautier // December 8, 2008 at 11:20 am |
Jessica, you are my hero! You are the most incredible human being I have ever seen!
Best regards,
Gautier
Rosie // December 8, 2008 at 6:06 pm |
Congratulations, Jessica!
My husband has been a pilot for many years. I started lessons but my foot slipped while visually checking the fuel and broke my foot. Before I got my requirements completed, my written expired. Needless to say, I never did get my license.
There is a lot of truth in ole saying “when there is a will, there is a way”. You definitely prove that.
Good luck and May God Bless You.
tubbytat // December 10, 2008 at 11:59 am |
Congratulations on what can be said as a huge acheivment. Not with flying with your feet but with getting the FAA to even consider such an ability. Well done
koerberwalker // December 11, 2008 at 6:06 am |
Jessica:
When we first met at NSA University – was it 4 years ago – I thought you were amazing. Not just what you are able to to, but the powerful positive attitude that radiates from you, the fabulous energy, and the can do spirit. Now I don’t just think it. I know it.
Enjoy your time in the clouds!
Joan Koerber-Walker
Bob Nicholson // December 15, 2008 at 8:46 pm |
Jessica,
You are awe inspiring! It took me 20 years to get my license to fly and I only flew in Arizona once. It scared me, I’m use to flying in very populated areas. You are amazing in all that you do.
Olga // December 16, 2008 at 3:20 am |
Hi, I learned about you, Jes, in a forwarded message: “Without Hands (Inspirations)”. I search about you in the web. You must be thankful with your parents who raised you with great discipline. You are on your with very great spirit! You inspired me so much. God Bless you all the way.
Paul Seabrook // December 24, 2008 at 11:46 am |
Just read about you in Sport Aviation, as a pilot myself, I can’t even begin to understand how you do it … Bravo my dear! I have also since finding your website, read some of the blogs, fortunately most of them positive. I just couldn’t believe that one person said your story was old and another was criticizing your choice in friends. Shame on those mindless a**holes!
Have you ever thought of being an astronaut?
Hugs,
Paul
B. G. T. // December 26, 2008 at 10:15 pm |
May God continue to use you as a blessing to others. Mabuhay!
Greg Moore // December 27, 2008 at 8:10 am |
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds, –and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of –Wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air…
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark or even eagle flew –
And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my foot, and touched the face of God.
John // January 10, 2009 at 12:13 am |
Dear Jess,
It is great… no words is enough express the the feelings, yes clouds are there to cheer you always..best.
Turbo // January 13, 2009 at 11:15 am |
Welcome to the world of aviation.
Congratulations on your Sport Pilot liscence.
Life is about the people we meet so enjoy your flying and accomplishments.
EAA/AOPA/FAC/FABA
sandra // January 20, 2009 at 5:58 pm |
eres una mujer con que nos dejas sin palabras eres una obra de dios reflejado en las virtudes y valiente gracias por dejarnos verte
sandra // January 20, 2009 at 5:59 pm |
eres una mujer maravillosa nos deja sin palabras nos levantas el animo gracias dios esta reflejado en ti
Clayton Lynch // February 5, 2009 at 2:10 am |
Hey Jessica, congrats on your huge accomplishment. I recently earned my private after (no lie) 16 years of on and off effort. You are an inspiration to everyone who flies or wants to fly irregardless of your other challenges. When you add the fact that you pushed through all the barriers that all of us pilots have dealt with minus your arms the resulting story is absolutely amazing. I have flown with your instructor Parrish Traweek in his piper commanche while we were in Grad school together. I’m so glad you found such a good guy to help you through the process. A good mentor like that is priceless in the aviation world. Thanks for sharing your story with everyone.
Clayton Lynch
Zeina Masri // February 15, 2009 at 1:04 pm |
Jessica!
You are an inspiration not only for the youth, but for all women.
You taught the world a lesson that what God takes away from one-kind, God gives strength elsewhere. No hands, your feet was and is your strength.
You also taught the world that mankind should make the best out of their own essence, their own skills.
I will never say I can’t physically and mentally)
I live in a part of the world(Lebanon) where there are alot of social and economic problems, where the youth and elderly feel internal insecurity and where some citizen’s have lost faith in their country and feel counter-productive in the labour force and in their social relations. I hope that we as Lebanese can use the moral of your to project positive conceptions about ourselves and our countrt rather project negative thoughts and strive to destroy each other.
You have proved that the mind is a positive tool. There are tonnes of studies that have proven how positive thoughts prolong life
Stephen Insalaco // February 16, 2009 at 10:32 am |
Jessica;
Congradulations on your flying accomplishments. Your attitude and spirit are truely an inspiration to everyone that comes in contact with you. It would be both an honor and an inspiration to have the pleasure to meet you some day. I hope that you continue your flying adventures. I myself frequent the San Pedro river valley in my own flying adventures nearly every weekend, operating out of Benson Municipal Airport. Hope to see you in southern Arizona skies someday, and maybe you’ll rock your wings at me. Be safe and happy landings, Stephen, N714KU (red, white, and blue Cessna 150M)
Bill Provine // February 16, 2009 at 10:18 pm |
Great job, Jessica. I was in the Ag flying business for many years and worked with a pilot with one leg and one with one eye. Both super pilots! Best of luck to you and keep the blue side up. Bill Provine
Edgar // February 16, 2009 at 10:50 pm |
I am speechless for your greatest achievement. Be blessed.
weight loser // February 27, 2009 at 2:52 pm |
We humans don’t know that we are awsome until we try, this lady is an example that we can do it all if we try hard even without arms!
Greetings from Kansas!
Belle Luer // March 25, 2009 at 9:20 am |
Hi Jessica, I’ve shared your inspirational story with the Burmese refugee women & children I teach and they have been completely touched and inspired by you. Indeed Nothing is Impossible… thanks for your gift of YOU
monica // April 3, 2009 at 8:04 am |
A W E S O M E
Gary D'Antoni // April 22, 2009 at 11:36 am |
Hi Jessica,
Way to go, Girl. You are an inspiration that transcends all ages and genders.
I have recommended you to a principal friend of mine who would be blessed to have to come and speak to her students. Assuming you are avaiable, and if needing transportation, simply email me. It will be a great pleasure to have you as my copilot.
Stephen Insalaco // June 8, 2009 at 8:39 am |
Jessica;
People keep coming by my cube to review the newspaper article and pictures that I have posted on my cubicle partition about you, and they continue to be amazed by your motivation and inspirational powers. You just keep turning heads. Way to go, young lady.
Jayson George // June 12, 2009 at 1:22 pm |
Hi jes
Its wonderful to know people like you … Truely motivating others , to understand our weakness and to overcome … Truely Amazing …
Nice to people like you ….