“On the occasion of my participation in the International Air and Space Show in Paris, I had the pleasure of meeting Paul Pocobelli" stated the Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, who admiringly added: “Paul is a true example of courage and perseverance. Through his deeds, he shows us how to overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary feats, without ever giving up. As a former officer of theArmy, Paolo embodies the fundamental values that distinguish ours Armed forces and Paralympic Defense athletes. He is a role model for all of us."
Paolo Pocobelli will show himself in the skies over Paris in 5 acrobatic performances, scheduled for 20, 22, 23, 24, 25 June.
Paraplegic since 1994, Pocobelli founded in 2011 “Wings for Everyone”, Association created to make the world of aviation an inclusive environment, and currently is Chief Instructor at the Flight School of the Aero Club of Verona. Since 2019 it is also Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.
Born in Milan in 1971, he was fascinated by aviation from an early age. Over time he cultivated this passion, becoming a private pilot in 1991. A few years later he began to jump with a parachute and work as a parachutist video operator, while obtaining his commercial flight license.
In 1994, during the 654th launch, due to an accident, he suffered the breaking of two vertebrae and a spinal cord injury, which made him paraplegic.
Paolo Pocobelli, with his extraordinary life journey, represents an example of resilience and determination for all those who face personal or professional challenges. His story is a vivid testimony of how hard work, dedication and fighting spirit can lead to success and inspire others to push their limits.
Starting from 2005, in fact, the whole training process restarted, obtaining the Private Pilot Licence, the instrumental and multi-engine flight qualification, the Commercial Pilot Licence, finally becoming a Flight Instructor and Instrumental Flight Instructor.
In 2011 he participated in an air show at Paris International Air and Space Show Le Bourget, as the first display pilot, in the professional category, to be paraplegic.
His determination and commitment to overcoming difficulties have inspired many people, proving that nothing is impossible when you have the will to pursue your goals.
Thanks to the recent purchase of a Ch 10 BK (F HNGA), also affectionately called 'The little Prince' – it is an acrobatic airplane, whose controls are installed both on the Pilot/Student position and on the Instructor side – Paolo Pocobelli and “Ali per tutti” return to the Le Bourget Air Show, where it all began in 2011.
Subscribe to our newsletter!