Pioneering the Skies
David E. Harris, the trailblazing pilot who broke barriers in 1964 when he became the first Black pilot hired at a major U.S. airline, has passed away at the age of 89.
Harris spent three decades flying for American Airlines, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and inspiring countless Black aviators to pursue their dreams of taking to the skies.
“Capt. Harris opened the doors and inspired countless Black pilots to pursue their dreams to fly,” said American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, pledging to honor Harris’ legacy by continuing to offer aviation careers “for those who otherwise might not know it’s possible.”
A Passion for Flight from an Early Age
Born in Columbus, Ohio, Harris’ fascination with aviation began at a young age.
He and his brother would visit the nearby Lockbourne Air Force Base, where the decorated Tuskegee Airmen were stationed after World War II, running around the base and never paying “any attention to the fact that all the people on the base were Black.”
“My brother and I would run around the base and never paid any attention to the fact that all the people on the base were Black,” Harris recalled.
Breaking Down Barriers
After serving in the Air Force for over six years, Harris faced rejection and silence from several airlines he applied to as a pilot.
It was American Airlines that finally offered him an interview, where he proudly declared his Black heritage, determined not to “pass for white.”
“He stopped them and just said, ‘Hey, look, I just want you to know, before we proceed, that I’m Black,’” said Michael Cottman, who wrote a biography of Harris.
Despite the overt racism he faced in the 1960s, Harris found inspiration in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., remaining professional and focused on his responsibility as a pilot, even in the face of offensive comments from colleagues.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Inspiration
Once established at American Airlines, Harris dedicated himself to mentoring young African Americans, men and women alike, who aspired to pursue careers in aviation.
His determination to “reach back and help others succeed” became a driving force in his life, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of Black pilots.
“Reaching back and helping others to succeed, that’s where I’d like for my legacy to be,” Harris said.
Through his unwavering perseverance, commitment to excellence, and dedication to uplifting others, David Ellsworth Harris left an indelible mark on the aviation industry, inspiring countless individuals to soar above racial barriers and pursue their dreams of taking to the skies.
