Custom aircraft for armless Tucson pilot nearly complete

Addressing the group, Newman said the process of building Cox’s aircraft has been a “win-win” for all people involved, with volunteers willingly dedicating hours of their weeks and generous donations making the initiative possible.

The materials for the plane itself, Cox said, were primarily donated by manufacturers like Van’s Aircraft and Lycoming, who provided the kit and engine, respectively. She said the overall dollar value of the plane is between $300,000 and $400,000.

Newman said this project marks a new, exciting moment for the chapter, with upcoming projects allowing the association to acquire money to put toward its scholarship fund.

“We really are education-based,” he said. “We’re here for pilots who are flying and want to stay safe and do what we can in terms of programs. We’re here for young people who want to get their first flight in an airplane.”

Cox, who was born without arms, acts as a motivational speaker to spread the message of adaptability and chasing your dreams. Cox said she used to be “terrified” of flying and thought the best way to get over her fear would be to learn how to fly herself. Starting in 2005, she said she began taking flight lessons.

In 2008, Cox earned her Sport Pilot Certificate, marking a historic win for aviation enthusiasts with disabilities. Now, as “The Impossible Airplane” prepares to leave Bayville and head to her home state of Arizona for final assembly and other finishing preparations, she said this aircraft will further heighten accessibility and ingenuity in the field.

Cox learned to fly using a 1946 Ercoupe, a two-seater plane and a rare example of an aircraft that does not use rudder pedals — meaning both of her feet can be used to operate the yoke and throttle without having to operate pedals.