Carbondale, Illinois, USA – Able Flight and SIU Aviation are again opening the skies to aspiring pilots with disabilities through their transformative 2025 flight training program. Now in its second year at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, the program welcomed five new students, each on a unique journey to earn a sport pilot certificate using specially adapted Vashon Ranger Light Sport aircraft. The program, which runs up to eight weeks, represents a rare and empowering opportunity for individuals with disabilities to experience the freedom of flight while gaining critical skills and confidence.

• Aircraft: Two specially adapted Vashon Ranger Light Sport aircraft, donated by Able Flight

• Certification goal: Sport Pilot License

• Total prior Able Flight graduates: 98 (before 2025 cohort)

• Program founder: Charles Stites, who transferred ownership of aircraft and committed funding to SIU for at least 7 years

Source: SIU Aviation
Photo Credit: SIU Aviation