Freedom's Wings Arizona

03/14/2026

Exciting!!! WEFLY! TEAM opening the Winter Paralympics 2026, showing the world that disability does NOT mean inability.

01/17/2026

We recently came across the documentary Adapted — a powerful new film exploring adaptive adventure through the stories of three athletes whose lives were changed by injury, but not defined by limitation.

As an organization rooted in adaptive aviation, these stories resonate deeply with us. They remind us that access, creativity, and opportunity can open doors — whether on a mountain, a river, or in the sky.

We’ve shared more reflections on this film and why it matters on our website. More to come.

✈️
Freedom’s Wings Arizona
Defy Gravity - Defy Limitations - Soar!

12/06/2025

So many accomplishments on her 16th birthday. Keep on flying and enjoy every day.

Ava Shelly
Port Saint Lucie, FL
Ava Shelly, 17, discovered her passion for aviation at just 10 years old. From her very first flight lesson, she knew the sky was where she belonged. Driven by curiosity and determination, she poured countless hours into flying, studying, and challenging herself to grow as a pilot.
On her 16th birthday, Ava achieved a milestone few can imagine—soloing both a single-engine airplane and a helicopter, while also earning her private pilot license in a glider that same day. This rare accomplishment set a high precedent in youth aviation and highlighted her commitment to excellence.
Ava’s journey is far from finished. With her sights set on the U.S. Naval Academy, she aspires to serve her country as a fighter pilot. She is motivated not only by her love of flying, but also by the honor of representing the next generation of aviators in one of the most demanding careers in the world.
When asked what advice she would share with others, Ava encourages young people to “follow their passions and never give up.” Her story is a testament to what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity, and she hopes her journey inspires others to chase their dreams fearlessly.

11/06/2025

Great idea!

10/20/2025

Freedom's Wings Canada event photos.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1RnqTXm2oX/

10/04/2025

Courage, Faith, and Flight — Reflections from EmpowerFest 2025: At EmpowerFest 2025, I met incredible people who turned loss into strength and faith. Sixteen months after surviving septic shock myself, I was reminded how precious life — and freedom — truly are. Their courage renewed my purpose to share the joy of flight through Freedom’s Wings Arizona. Full article:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/gratitude-resilience-freedom-soar-lessons-from-2025-ernie-hilborn-lucqc/?trackingId=KNAk5K4uaJEK%2BX%2BiZPd0vg%3D%3D

10/04/2025

At EmpowerFest 2025, I met incredible people who turned loss into strength and faith. Sixteen months after surviving septic shock myself, I was reminded how precious life — and freedom — truly are. Their courage renewed my purpose to share the joy of flight through Freedom’s Wings Arizona.

✈️ Read the full story → https://freedomswingsaz.org/blog/f/empowerfest-2025-renewed-faith-shared-courage-freedom-to-soar

10/02/2025

Thanks for the shout out. We are looking forward to more flights this fall.

We had the honor of welcoming Freedoms Wings Arizona to the glider port this week! 🪂✨ Their mission of providing the joy of soaring to individuals with disabilities is nothing short of inspiring.

Sharing the skies with this amazing group reminded us why we love what we do—flying brings freedom, perspective, and pure joy. 💙

Thank you, Freedoms Wings AZ, for letting us be part of your journey. The sky truly belongs to everyone. 🌤️✈️

09/25/2025

Enjoy!