The Impossible Airplane, a one-of-a-kind aircraft, is being built as the first aircraft in aviation history designed to be flown entirely without the use of hands, according to officials with the Rightfooted Foundation.
The project is led by Jessica Cox, the world’s first certificated armless pilot and a longtime advocate for disability inclusion through aviation.
She earned her sport pilot certificate in 2008 in an ERCO 415-C Ercoupe. Designed in the 1940s, the Ercoupe was built without rudder pedals. Instead, the rudder is connected with the ailerons through the yoke. This design allowed Cox to fly the airplane with one foot controlling the yoke and the other foot controlling the throttle.
The Impossible Airplane is a custom-built Van’s RV-10. Unlike adaptations made to standard planes, this aircraft is designed from the start around Jessica’s needs as a pilot who flies using only her feet. From the controls to the seating to the instrument panel, every element has been engineered for functionality, safety, and long-distance independent travel, according to Cox.
“This airplane isn’t just about flying,” she said. “It’s about freedom. It’s about showing the world what’s possible for people with disabilities.”
She adds its a way for her to bring the message of her nonprofit, Rightfooted Foundation International, to the world like never before. She’ll use the airplane not only as a national outreach platform, but also as a mobile mentorship platform, allowing Jessica to visit communities across the country, speak at schools and events, and connect directly with children who were born without arms.
The aircraft, which is being built in Toms River, New Jersey, with the help of pilot volunteers from EAA Chapter 898, is expected to have its first flight in the summer of 2026. Cox adds she plans to bring the aircraft to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026.
Cox recently unveiled the paint scheme for the aircraft. Designed by internationally acclaimed aircraft designer Mirco Pecorari of AircraftStudioDesign in Modena, Italy, it features a “disability” blue and tan color palette, a symbolic “impossible twist” motif inspired by the Möbius strip, and ancient Filipino script in tribute to Jessica’s heritage, she explained. The footprint graphic on the tail references the Rightfooted Foundation logo and the idea of moving forward through determination and innovation, foundation officials add.
Patrick Chamberlain, the Inclusive Engineering Director at Rightfooted, emphasized that building the one-of-a-kind airplane is not a stunt.
“Jessica already proved she could fly a standard airplane,” he said. “The Impossible Airplane proves aviation can adapt to her. It is a purposefully engineered aircraft built for safe operation and long-range outreach.”
For more information: Rightfooted.org
Inspiring and humbling. I don’t think I will bitch about anything, ever again. You go, girl!
I agree Mike.
She is an inspiration and the next time I think of throwing myself a pity party, I’ll remember Jessica and count my blessings.