Pilot Spotlight: Olivia Allen
Follow Olivia on Instagram here at @oliviaallen567
Fun Aspects of Flying: What do you enjoy most about flying?
I enjoy the freeing feeling of being in an airplane and how all worries melt away after a few minutes of being on the flight deck. Seeing seven F-16s fly 1500’ overhead while breaking off an approach was insane and amazing. I’ll never forget it!
Tell Us About Your Aviation Journey:
Growing up, I was always looking at the planes overhead. I took a Young Eagles flight in Elkhart, IN (KEKM) around the age of 11. I was immediately interested in aviation. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school that I got serious about it. I knew there weren’t any pilots that looked like me (Deaf with a Cochlear Implant), so I decided I didn’t care what others thought was impossible and thought, why not be that person I never had growing up?
Current Status
GA pilot. Private working on instrument.
Career Highlights:
What have been your aviation career's standout moments or achievements so far?
NBAA in Vegas with IHartFlying was an amazing experience! It is one that really stands out to me as I have never been to a convention, let alone an aviation one; plus it was my first time in Vegas! Volunteering at fly in pancake breakfasts and doing a candy drop from a helicopter were all fun opportunities as well!
Attending NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, October 2023. Standing with Martha and John King from King schools, along with Rachelle Hart from I Hart Flying Foundation.
Advice for Aspiring Pilots: What tips or advice would you give someone starting their flight training or aviation career?
Feeling burnt out is normal and valid. Take a small breather! Go do a fun XC or maneuver lesson and remember why you chose aviation! Those who work hard and put in the hours will make it. Humans are not meant to fly. It’s not natural, so be easy on yourself when training gets tough. You’ve got this!
Favorite Aviation Tips and Tricks: Do you have a favorite aviation hack or tip that improves your flying experience?
Trim is your best friend. Utilize it, seriously. It'll make your life so much easier. Did I mention how great trim is?
Aviation Organizations: Are you a member of any aviation organizations?
Women in Aviation-Hoosier Heartland chapter, 99’s, EAA are both chapters I’ve joined recently. The Women in Aviation Hoosier Heartland chapter is a new chapter that I serve on as Membership Chair. It’s been amazing meeting so many different women who love aviation as much as I do and they all range in aviation backgrounds!
Additional Comments: Do you want to share anything about your aviation experience?
I fought for 2 years to get my medical cleared of all restrictions with my deafness. Which means I started college two years later than planned. Things don’t go as planned but keeping at it is the only way anyone will ever overcome. If the FAA tries to stop you, bust down those barriers and keep trying.
Follow Olivia on Instagram @oliviaallen567
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Follow Olivia on Instagram @oliviaallen567 〰️
I’m on a mission to gather some incredible pilot stories to feature on the On Final blog. Whether you’re just beginning your flight training or you’ve been soaring through the skies for years, I want to hear from you!
Your experiences and stories can inspire others in the aviation community, and I’m excited to share them on the blog. If you’re up for it, please send me your story and some photos through the link below:
