South King News

Jack Busenbark, a resident of Texas, has achieved his dream of becoming a pilot despite being deaf. From a young age, he was fascinated by aviation and aspired to be an airline pilot. However, his mother discovered that due to regulations requiring pilots to maintain radio contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC), it would be impossible for him to become an airline pilot. Nevertheless, Jack pursued his passion and earned a Private Pilot License in 2017.

Deaf pilots have been part of the aviation history in the United States since its early days. Notable figures include Cal Rogers, who made the first transcontinental flight across the U.S. in 1911, and Nellie Zabel Willhite, South Dakota's first woman pilot and likely the first licensed deaf pilot in 1928.

Historically, many general aviation aircraft did not require radios until the 1950s. The FAA later tightened regulations stating that "pilots operating at controlled airports or in controlled airspace are required to be in radio contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC), or they can use light signals with prior arrangement and approval by the airport control tower management." This requirement poses challenges for deaf individuals aspiring to fly but does not prevent them from obtaining a private license.

Deaf pilots like Jack often face additional hurdles such as finding instructors willing to work with them. He advises others seeking flight training to consider female or minority-run schools which may be more inclusive due to their own experiences with prejudice.

Courtney Bertling is another example of perseverance within this community. She began flying at age 60 and became a Certified Sport Pilot without needing special medical waivers required for deaf Private Pilots. Her YouTube channel provides instructional content aimed at inspiring others.

The Deaf Pilots Association offers resources for those interested in pursuing aviation while Courtney Bertling’s online presence continues to encourage people from all backgrounds to take up flying.