10 Inspiring Female Pilots Who Took the Skies at an Early Age

When it comes to historical figures in the world of aviation, we often think of male pilots such as the Wright Brothers, Charles Lindbergh, and Amelia Earhart. However, there have been numerous female pilots who made significant contributions to the field throughout history.

In this article, we will focus on 10 inspirational female pilots who took to the skies at an early age, many of them being just kids under 10 years old. Their stories will not only captivate and inspire your children but also shed light on the incredible feats accomplished by these young aviators.

1. Sophie Blanchard (1778-1819)

Sophie Blanchard is widely recognized as the world's first female aeronaut. Born in France in 1778, Blanchard developed a fascination with balloons at a young age. At the tender age of 10, she witnessed her first balloon ascent and from that moment, she knew she belonged in the skies. By the time she turned 12, she had already become an accomplished balloonist, and at 15, she performed the first solo flight by a woman.

Amelia Earhart: (Children's Biography Book, Kids Age 5 to 10, Flying, Aviation, Female Pilot, Historical) (Inspired Inner Genius)

by Inspired Inner Genius (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15057 KB
Print length	:	16 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

2. Elinor Smith (1911-2010)

Elinor Smith, known to many as "The Flying Flapper of Freeport," defied societal norms by taking up flying as a young girl. At age six, she took her first flight with her father, and by age 10, she piloted her first aircraft solo. Despite facing various challenges and setbacks, Smith went on to become one of the most celebrated female pilots of her time.

3. Bessie Coleman (1892-1926)

Bessie Coleman, an African-American pilot in the early 20th century, overcame racial and gender barriers to pursue her dreams of flying. At the age of 10, she started working as a laundress to save money for flight school. Eventually, she became the first African-American woman to hold a pilot's license, opening doors for future generations of female and minority aviators.

4. Jerrie Mock (1925-2014)

Jerrie Mock, born in 1925, always had a passion for aviation. At age 7, she took her first airplane ride and was instantly hooked. By age 10, Mock began taking flying lessons and showcasing her innate talent as a pilot. In 1964, she became the first woman to successfully fly solo around the world, a feat that solidified her place in aviation history.

5. Aida de Acosta (1881-1962)

Aida de Acosta flew into the aviation scene at just 19 years old, becoming the first woman to independently fly a powered aircraft. Inspired by the flights of pilot Alberto Santos-Dumont, she convinced him to teach her how to fly his aircraft. At the age of 10, she knew aviation was her true passion, and years later, she realized her dream of taking flight.

6. Eileen Collins (born 1956)

Eileen Collins, the first female Space Shuttle pilot and commander, discovered her love for aviation at an early age. She became determined to become a pilot after witnessing the historic Moon landing in 1969. Collins pursued her dreams relentlessly, and at the age of 9, she started taking flying lessons. Through dedication and hard work, she paved the way for future female astronauts.

7. Joan Merriam Smith (1921-2010)

Joan Merriam Smith, an aviation pioneer, made her mark in the 1930s. At age 10, she was already flying planes and taking part in air races. Her dedication and skill in the male-dominated field of aviation allowed her to set multiple records, including being the youngest licensed pilot in the United States at the time.

8. Fay Gillis Wells (1908-2002)

Fay Gillis Wells, a journalist and pilot, flew her way into history by becoming the first female pilot to fly from New York to Alaska solo. Inspired by Charles Lindbergh's transatlantic flight, Wells discovered her passion for flying as a child and pursued it wholeheartedly. By age 10, she had already taken to the skies, fueling her love for aviation.

9. Jacqueline Cochran (1906-1980)

Jacqueline Cochran, an influential figure in aviation history, began her journey at the age of 10. She developed a strong fascination with flying after seeing an airplane for the first time. Despite a difficult childhood, Cochran persevered and went on to become one of the most successful female aviators of her time, breaking numerous speed and altitude records along the way.

10. Valentina Tereshkova (born 1937)

Valentina Tereshkova, a trailblazer in the field of space exploration, had dreams of becoming a pilot since childhood. At age 10, she joined a local aviation club and later became a revered pilot in the Soviet Union. In 1963, she became the first woman to travel to space, solidifying her place in history as a pioneer and inspiring generations of young girls to pursue their dreams.

These 10 remarkable female pilots prove that age is no barrier when it comes to pursuing one's dreams. Their stories not only highlight their courage and determination but also serve as an inspiration to children everywhere, showing them that anything is possible.

By sharing these historical biographies with your children, you can foster their interest in aviation, encourage them to reach for the skies, and help them realize the potential within themselves. So, encourage your young ones to dream big and let their imaginations take flight!

Amelia Earhart: (Children's Biography Book, Kids Age 5 to 10, Flying, Aviation, Female Pilot, Historical) (Inspired Inner Genius)

by Inspired Inner Genius (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15057 KB
Print length	:	16 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Gift your kid the inspirational tale of Amelia Earhart! Inspire courage, bravery, and unlimited possibilities.

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Age Specifications:
This illustrated biography book of Amelia Earhart is perfect for boys and girls between 5 to 10 years old and it is awesome for any child (toddlers, preschool and kindergarten) who is interested in reading. Your kid will love it!

About Amelia Earhart:
Nicknamed as the "Queen of Air", Amelia was an international celebrity who set multiple aviation records. She was the first woman to fly across the Atlantic solo, raising the bar for all aviators alike. But she did not stop there. Amelia took it up a notch and set out to conquer the seemingly impossible challenge of flying around the world, until her unfortunate and mysterious disappearance. Nevertheless, Amelia left her mark as one of the most iconic women of her generation, inspiring millions of women around the world even to this very day.

“The most effective way to do it, is to do it.” – Amelia Earhart

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