The first Black pilot hired at a major U.S. airline has died at age 89. David E. Harris broke barriers in 1964 when he went to work for American Airlines. Before then, Harris had struggled to find work in the airline industry despite having spent six years flying bombers for the Air Force. His family says he died March 8 in Marietta, Georgia.
DALLAS — David E. Harris, who flew bombers for the U.S. military and broke barriers in 1964 when he became the first Black pilot hired at a
Harris flew for the Air Force for more than six years but struggled to find work in the airline industry. Before he went to work for American Airlines, his job applications were rejected or ignored, he said.magazine in 2015. “I didn’t want to go with any airline that wasn’t really ready to hire Blacks.”
Even 60 years after Harris’ hiring, Blacks employees remain underrepresented in aviation. Black people make up 12.8% of the U.S. population but only
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
David E. Harris, first Black commercial pilot for major US airline, dies at 89American Airlines is mourning the loss of Capt. David E. Harris, the first Black pilot to fly for a major U.S. airline.
Read more »
David E. Harris, first Black pilot for a major U.S. carrier, dies at 89“There is no way I should be the first,” said Mr. Harris, a former captain at American Airlines. “It should’ve happened long before 1964.”
Read more »
RNC’s First Black Chair Busts Donald Trump’s Claim About Black VotersSpanish/English journalist covering a wide range of topics -- from breaking news and politics to popular culture, street art, memes, satirical takes, environmental issues, social media trends and more.
Read more »
Black women may prefer Black OBs due to fear of discrimination, dying during pregnancyClaretta Bellamy is a fellow for NBC News.
Read more »
Readout of HHS Secretary Becerra’s Roundtable with National Black Leaders Commemorating Black History MonthSecretary Becerra reiterated HHS's commitment to continued partnerships to improve health outcomes in the Black community.
Read more »