Kamora Freeland, a spirited 17-year-old from Staten Island, has made headlines as one of the youngest African American pilots in U.S. history.

While many teenagers are focused on obtaining their driving licenses, Kamora has already soared to new heights, earning her pilot’s license before even getting behind the wheel of a car.

Kamora’s journey into aviation began unexpectedly. As a child, she dreamed of exploring the depths of the ocean as a marine biologist.

However, everything changed when she took her first flight lesson at the age of 15.

“I never thought I would be flying planes,” she shared with a bright smile.

“It was my mother, Lakema, who encouraged me to try it, and I instantly fell in love with flying.”

Kamora’s first flight lesson was a transformative experience.

She recalls the thrill of taking off, the rush of the wind, and the breathtaking views from above.

In that moment, her passion for marine biology was overshadowed by a newfound love for aviation.

Fast forward to February 26, 2024, when Kamora achieved a remarkable milestone: she became the youngest licensed pilot in New York State, and one of the youngest in U.S. history.

This achievement allowed her to fly a single-engine plane with up to 12 passengers.

The very next day, she obtained her driving license, completing a remarkable double feat that many teenagers can only dream of.

Kamora’s accomplishment has not gone unnoticed.

She was honored with a proclamation of achievement by the New York State Senate and Assembly at the state Capitol on March 18, 2024.

This recognition reflects not only her personal achievements but also her role as a trailblazer for young women and people of color in aviation.

Kamora’s story is particularly inspiring in an industry where women and minorities are still underrepresented.

She hopes to encourage other young girls to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

“Flying has given me a sense of freedom and empowerment,” she explained.

“I want other girls to know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.”

Her mother, Lakema, has been a constant source of support throughout Kamora’s journey.

“Seeing my daughter achieve her dreams is the most rewarding experience,” Lakema expressed.

“She has shown me what determination looks like, and I couldn’t be prouder of her.”

Kamora’s dedication to aviation goes beyond just flying.

She is actively involved in her community, participating in outreach programs aimed at inspiring young people to explore careers in aviation and STEM fields.

She believes that representation matters and that seeing someone who looks like them in a pilot’s seat can inspire others to follow suit.

As she continues her journey, Kamora is focused on furthering her education and training in aviation.

She dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot and eventually starting her own flight school to help train future pilots.

“I want to create opportunities for others,” she said.

“Flying is not just a passion for me; it’s a way to give back and empower the next generation.”

Kamora Freeland’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and the support of family.

As she navigates the skies, she is also breaking barriers and redefining what is possible for young women and people of color in aviation.

Her journey is just beginning, and the sky is truly the limit.

In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, Kamora stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many.

Her story encourages us all to pursue our passions, embrace our dreams, and never be afraid to reach for the sky.

As we celebrate Kamora’s achievements, let us also remember the importance of mentorship and support in helping young people realize their dreams.

Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to soar.

Kamora Freeland is not just a pilot; she is a pioneer, an inspiration, and a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Her journey is a beautiful blend of passion, perseverance, and purpose, making her a true role model for generations to come.

Kamora Freeland Is The Youngest Licensed Pilot At 17 Years Old

A black teenager from Staten Island is soaring to new heights.

Kamora Freeland made history as the youngest African-American female to earn a private pilot’s license last year. Now, she continues to break barriers by starting her sophomore year at Spelman College, an HBCU in Atlanta, skipping freshman year after earning college credits in high school.

As the New York Post reports, Freeland dreamed of exploring the ocean as a marine biologist as a little kid. Fast forward years later, the 17-year-old is now cruising the clouds at over 5,500 feet.

“I earned my pilot license before I got a driver’s license,” Kamora told The Post with a laugh.

Last year, Kamora made headlines after acing her check ride at Republic Airport in Long Island, earning her private pilot’s license at just 17. She said, “I love flying, and I have a passion for it. Plus, pilots can make up to $700,000, so that caught my attention, too. The next step is to become a commercial airline pilot.”

“Bittersweet moment”

Freeland’s hard work earned her the Presidential Scholarship at Spelman and a spot in the Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program.

“Starting college as a sophomore has been a whirlwind of emotions—exciting, overwhelming, and liberating all at once,” Freeland told the Advance/SILive.com about attending the HBCU. “It’s like stepping into a whole new world where you’re figuring out who you are, balancing independence, and navigating friendships, academics, and late-night study sessions.”

Although Kamora was once focused on becoming a commercial pilot and even received an internship offer from NASA, she is now majoring in finance with a minor in entrepreneurship.

For Kamora’s mother, Lakema Freeland, seeing her daughter start college as a sophomore is a proud but “bittersweet moment.” She said, “I’m so proud of her for taking that big step, but my heart aches knowing the house is a little quieter without her laughter. It’s a mix of excitement for her future and the longing to hold on to the moments we’ve shared.”