Amelia Earhart
Amelia Earhart has cemented her place in history as one of America’s greatest pilots. This pioneer of aviation went on to set many prestigious flight records throughout her career. Although mystery still surrounds the circumstances of her disappearance, the accomplishments of this celebrated pilot simply cannot be denied.
Amelia Mary Earhart was born to parents Samuel and Amelia on July 24, 1897 in the small community of Atchison, Kansas. Even at an early age, Amelia was a child who was curious about the world around her and could often be seen climbing trees and exploring outdoors. The Spanish flu of 1918 took a toll on her health and resulted in hospitalization, but the epidemic was not enough to shake her undying spirit.
Earhart’s career in flying began at the age of 23 after renowned pilot Frank Hawks took her and her father on a short flight around an air field in Long Beach, California. The brief flight inspired her to learn more about aviation. She soon began working odd jobs to save money for flight lessons. Earhart eventually went on to become only the 16th woman to ever be granted a pilot’s license by the FAI and even purchased a yellow airplane which she dubbed “The Canary.”
As Earhart’s career evolved, people around the world began taking note of her storied success. She set a record in 1922 by becoming the first female pilot to fly at an altitude of 14,000 feet. The first solo transatlantic flight by Charles Lindbergh in 1927 inspired Amelia’s goal to become the first woman to pull off the same feat.
She accomplished her record-setting flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932 by traveling from Newfoundland to a small pasture near Derry in Northern Ireland. Earhart also become the first pilot to make a solo journey from Hawaii to Oakland, California.
Amelia Earhart – Disappearance
Much to the dismay of the world Amelia Earhart suddenly vanished while attempting to circumnavigate the globe on July 2, 1937. She attempted this journey along with fellow pilot Fred Noonan. Earhart radioed to report of low fuel in her airplane the morning of her disappearance as she approached Howard Island in the Pacific Ocean. Radio transmissions were lost shortly thereafter. She was never heard from again.
Many theories have arisen over the years as to what may have happened to Amelia Earhart. Most people seem to believe that Earhart’s airplane crashed and sunk into the sea. Others believe that Earhart and Noonan became marooned on Gardner Island.
In spite of Amelia Earhart’s seemingly tragic end, this notable female pilot’s groundbreaking achievements have left an impression on society. The legend of Amelia Earhart continues to captivate the minds of people all around the world to this day.
