AIMING HIGH: Isaiah Cooper, 16, wants to become the youngest ever person to fly around the world
A YOUNG boy has become the youngest black pilot to fly around the US.
Isaiah Cooper, 16, made history when he landed in his hometown on Monday, July 18 after a 8,000-mile flight flying from California to Maine, Washington, Florida and back home.
His journey began on July 5 when he departed the Compton-Woodley airport, California. He flew about three legs a day, logging five to six hours each day.
Just two days into his roughly two-week journey, Cooper called his flight instructor and mentor Robin Petgrave to tell him he was ready to give up, according to reports..
“It was terrifying. I was really scared, I wanted to give up and go home,” Cooper told Mic. “But having conversations with Robin and other people, it calmed my nerves and I continued on with the trip.”
Cooper’s recent voyage is just the start for the record-breaking teen. Next year after his 18th birthday, Cooper said he plans on becoming the youngest pilot to make a solo flight around the world, a record currently held by Matt Guthmiller who made the trip when he was 19.
The teen started a GoFundMe page to help fund his around-the-world trip. His goal is to raise $45,000 (£34k).
"I like aviation. I love planes and helicopters," said Cooper. "As a young kid, I watched over seven people break records from the same foundation I'm under, and I love it."
Since he was five, Cooper has been a student at Tomorrow' Aeronautical Museum, a non-profit organisation that teaches inner-city youth how to fly.
“When I fly I feel invincible, like I’m on the top of the world. I love it,” Cooper added.