Captain David E. Harris Legacy Scholarship

In 1964, Captain David E. Harris made history when he became the first Black pilot hired by a major U.S. airline. Before taking the controls of an American Airlines jet, he had already proven himself as a skilled U.S. Air Force pilot and a man of integrity who refused to let prejudice ground his dreams. When he applied, he simply wrote, “I’m Black,” making it clear that his talent, and not the color of his skin, should define his future. American Airlines hired him, and history took flight.

Today, the Urban Aviators Society honors his courage and trailblazing spirit through the Captain David E. Harris Legacy Scholarship. This scholarship helps young aviators from underrepresented communities gain access to flight training, mentorship, and education, opportunities that continue the mission Captain Harris started: opening the skies to everyone with the heart to fly.

Your donation keeps his legacy alive. Together, we can help a new generation take off, breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and proving that the sky truly has no limits.

Donate today and help the next aviator soar in Captain Harris’s name.