Salutes African-American Women Aviators
Who Blazed a Trail of Proud Accomplishments for Our Nation. Bessie Coleman 1892-1926
Popularly known as “Queen Bess,” Coleman was the first African-American (male or female) to become an airplane pilot, and the first American of any race to hold an international pilot’s license. In 1989, Bessie was honored by the First Flight Society for her achievement as a “first” in aviation’s development. In 1995, she was honored with her image on a U.S. postage stamp, and was inducted into the Women in Aviation Hall of Fame.
Wilma Brown 1906-1992
In addition to being an aviator, Wilma Brown was an activist, educator and the first African-American officer in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). She and her husband, Cornelius, formed the Coffey School of Aeronautics to train African-American pilots. She was the first female African-American aviator to be awarded a commercial pilot’s license.
Ida Van Smith 1917-
Smith’s interest in aviation began when she was a young child. However, she delayed the pursuit of her dream for nearly fifty years. After raising four children and teaching for many years, she took her first lesson in a single-engine airplane at the age of 50. Smith became a licensed pilot and ground instructor, and was instrument rated (which means she was allowed to fly during inclement weather.) Supporting Women in Aviation | flytallahassee.com
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