New people will soon be inducted into the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame at the Pima Air and Space Museum. Among them is Jessica Cox, the first licensed armless airplane pilot.
The Hall of Fame recognizes those in Arizona “who have played a role or made a contribution to aviation and aerospace history.” Instead of hands, Cox uses her feet to manage airplane controls like the yoke and throttle.
Besides flying, Cox also helped found Rightfooted Foundation International, a nonprofit organization helping children with physical disabilities.
Cox says she was originally terrified of flying an airplane.
“So that desire to overcome the fear is where it all started and some wonderful opportunities, pilots crossed my path and opportunities in aviation arose and that is what gave me the opportunity to start my flight training process," she said.
Cox says she’s thankful for the honor.
“I feel so humbled and so grateful to be among some of the most incredible people who have paved the way for me as an aviator, as a pilot," she said.
She’s also involved in a project to develop a custom airplane tailored to her needs.
The induction ceremony that will recognize Cox and two other pilots will take place on May 15.
