Amelia Earhart 1976

Childhood dream takes flight

Amelia Earhart, nine years old, builds a homemade play aircraft with her sister Pidge on a Kansas farm. The project reveals her intelligence and precocious interest in aviation that will push her toward extraordinary feats later in life. This childhood curiosity plants the seed for her future as a pioneer in flight.

WWI era sparks a career resolve

As World War I unfolds in 1917, Amelia works as a college student in a doctor's office and resolves to join the war effort as a nurse. One night, on a rooftop break with a coworker, she sees an aircraft and the sight rekindles her lifelong passion for flight. The moment marks a turning point toward aviation.

First flight training and her first aircraft

In 1921, Amelia takes her first training flight with Neta Snook and buys her first aircraft, a Kinner Canary, with her father's blessing. Her father has become a chronic alcoholic, creating personal and financial obstacles. These early experiences solidify her resolve to pursue aviation.

Cross-country road trip with her mother

In 1924, Amelia and her mother embark on a cross-country road trip from Los Angeles to Boston in an open roadster, engaging in arguments along the way. The journey exposes her to diverse landscapes and people, fueling her independent spirit. The trip foreshadows her willingness to take risks for her dreams.

Orphanage work and Boston romance

Back in Boston in 1924, Amelia develops an on-and-off relationship with a young man and works at a children's orphanage. She uses what little money she saves to subsidize her growing passion for flying. The combination of romance, service, and frugality reinforces her commitment to aviation.

First Atlantic invitation as a passenger

In 1928, while employed at the orphanage, Amelia is invited to become the first woman to fly the Atlantic in a fixed-wing aircraft, as a passenger aboard the Fokker Friendship. Pilot Wilmer Stultz and co-pilot Lou Gordon handle the controls during the historic flight. The experience fuels her determination to fly the Atlantic herself someday.

Coast-to-coast flight and growing fame

That same year, Earhart pilots her Avro Avian on a coast-to-coast flight. Some southern locals recognize her from the Friendship flight, igniting a growing public profile. She still yearns to fly the Atlantic solo and prove herself beyond being a passenger.

Marriage to Putnam unlocks resources

Amelia marries George Palmer Putnam, a media tycoon who becomes her publicist and ally. The marriage helps fund her ambitious aviation projects, including purchasing an expensive red Lockheed Vega. The partnership blends public life with a shared drive for record-breaking flights.

Lockheed Vega purchase and solo dream

With Putnam’s support, she buys a high-performance red Lockheed Vega and plans the solo Atlantic flight. The decision marks a major shift from passenger appearances to leading-edge solo exploration. This aircraft becomes her symbol for pursuing unprecedented aviation milestones.

Departure from Newfoundland for the solo attempt

On May 20, 1932, Earhart leaves Newfoundland, heading toward the Atlantic in a solo attempt that would redefine women in aviation. The voyage is meticulously planned and widely anticipated, carrying both her ambitions and the weight of public expectation. The skies carry her toward a historic milestone.

Rise to international fame through record flights

Following her 1932 solo attempt, Earhart’s series of record-breaking flights propels her to international fame. She forges a close relationship with George Putnam’s family, including his son David, who admires her courage and resilience. The era cements her status as a symbol of female aviation achievement.

Round-the-world plan with Paul Mantz

With help from close adviser Paul Mantz, Earhart embarks on plans for her longest flight yet—a round-the-world attempt in 1937. The project showcases her daring ambition and the collaboration of a skilled team around her. It also sets the stage for the final, unresolved chapter of her aviation quest.