Born: 1913 (Gonzalez, Texas)
Died: 2019
Biography:
Azellia White (June 3, 1913 – September 15, 2019) was an American aviator who played a significant role in breaking barriers for African-American women in aviation. Born in Gonzalez, Texas, White became one of the first African-American women in the United States to earn a pilot’s license, defying the prevalent stereotypes of the time that deemed both women and African Americans unfit to fly planes.
In 1936, Azellia married Hulon Pappy White, and five years later, they moved to Tuskegee, Alabama, where her husband worked as an airplane mechanic with the renowned Tuskegee Airmen. It was during this time that White had a life-changing encounter with Eleanor Roosevelt in 1941. Inspired by Roosevelt’s support and encouragement, Azellia urged her husband to allow the Tuskegee Airmen to participate in World War II.
Motivated by her newfound passion for aviation, Azellia White began her flight training at Tuskegee, flying a Taylorcraft airplane under the tutelage of several Tuskegee Airmen. Her dedication and perseverance paid off when she earned her private pilot’s license on March 26, 1946. Her achievement marked a significant milestone, solidifying her place as a trailblazer for both African-American women and the aviation industry as a whole.
After World War II ended, the Whites relocated to South Houston, Texas. In 1946, Azellia, along with Tuskegee Airmen Ben Stevenson and Elton Ray Thomas, founded the Sky Ranch Flying Service. Located on the Taylor-Stevenson Ranch, the Sky Ranch Flying Service served as an airport and flight school catering to Houston’s black community. It provided charter flights and flying lessons, offering aspiring black aviators the opportunity to pursue their dreams in a time of racial segregation.
Although not an official owner, Azellia White became an iconic figure at the Sky Ranch Flying Service. Known for her captivating personality, flying students often requested rides with her, and she would occasionally surprise them with mid-air stunts. She even used her piloting skills for practical reasons, flying with her niece to go shopping in different towns to avoid the potential dangers of land travel for African-Americans during that era.
Unfortunately, the Sky Ranch Flying Service eventually closed due to changing laws that restricted the use of the G.I. Bill, causing business to decline. However, the legacy of Azellia White’s pioneering spirit and determination continues to inspire generations of aspiring aviators.
In recognition of her ground-breaking achievements, Azellia White received numerous accolades. In April 2018, she was inducted into the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, housed in the Lone Star Flight Museum. In Houston, the Aviation Science Lab at Sterling High School was named in her honor, serving as a powerful reminder to students that they can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams.
Azellia White’s groundbreaking contributions to aviation and her indomitable spirit were acknowledged by the Black Pilots of America, who honored her with the Trailblazer Award. This award recognized her as an individual who paved the way for others in the field of aviation and highlighted her unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers.
Azellia White passed away on September 15, 2019, at the age of 106. Her incredible life journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and the profound impact one person can have on shaping history.
Awards:
– Inductee, Texas Aviation Hall of Fame (2018)
– Trailblazer Award, Black Pilots of America