Elinor Smith

Date of Birth: August 17, 1911

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: March 19, 2010

Biography

Elinor Smith, also known as “The Flying Flapper of Freeport,” was an American aviator who achieved significant milestones in aviation history. Born in Freeport, New York, Smith developed a passion for flying at a young age and became one of the youngest licensed pilots in the United States. She is renowned for her daring stunts, including flying under all four of New York City’s East River bridges at the age of 17, which catapulted her to national fame. Throughout her career, Smith set numerous records, including altitude and endurance flying records. She was also the first woman test pilot for both Fairchild and Bellanca aircraft companies. Her contributions to aviation were recognized with numerous awards, and she remained an active advocate for aviation throughout her life.

5 Interesting Facts about Elinor Smith

1. Elinor Smith was the youngest pilot to receive a license from the United States government at the age of 16.

2. She set a women’s solo endurance record in 1929 by flying for 13 hours and 16 minutes.

3. Smith was named the best female pilot in the United States in 1930 by her peers, including Amelia Earhart.

4. She was the first woman to appear on a Wheaties cereal box in 1934.

5. Later in life, Smith became an advocate for women in aviation, inspiring many young female pilots.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Elinor Smith

1. “Flying is the best possible thing for women.”

2. “I don’t see it as dangerous, I see it as fun.”

3. “The air is an ocean that never runs dry.”

4. “You haven’t seen a tree until you’ve seen its shadow from the sky.”

5. “Aviation is proof that given the will, we have the capacity to achieve the impossible.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Elinor Smith’s highest net worth is not well documented, but her contributions to aviation and her various roles likely provided her with a comfortable living.