David Harris, the first African American pilot to fly a commercial airliner for a major U.S. carrier, died Saturday at the age of 89. American Airlines, where Harris was first hired in 1964, confirmed his passing.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Capt. David E. Harris, a trailblazer in aviation who became the first Black commercial airline pilot when he was hired by American Airlines in 1964. Capt. Harris opened the doors and inspired countless Black pilots to pursue their dreams to fly,” said American CEO Robert Isom in a statement. “We will honor his legacy by ensuring we continue to create access and opportunities for careers in aviation for those who otherwise might not know it’s possible.”
Prior to joining the airline industry, Harris served in the U.S. Air Force as a second lieutenant where he flew the B-47 Stratojet and B-52s. While a student at Ohio State University, he was rejected from the Air Force’s advanced ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) program twice on racial grounds, according to NBC DFW.
After leaving the military in 1964, Harris joined American’s ranks after being denied by several other airlines. He flew the Boeing 747, Boeing 727, Boeing 767, Airbus A300, Douglas DC-6, BAC One-Eleven, and the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 during his tenure at the airline.
Harris flew for 30 years at American before his retirement in 1994 as a captain.
Harris also achieved the distinction of becoming the first African American captain for a major U.S. commercial airline. No cause of death has been made public.
