From an Emergency Landing on I-10 to Flying with the Blue Angels: Emily Shelton Takes the Ride of a Lifetime

Pensacola pilot and flight instructor Emily Shelton experienced aviation from an entirely new perspective Friday. She took to the skies with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

The special flight recognized the remarkable courage and composure Shelton displayed during an aviation emergency in August. The 21-year-old instructor was conducting a lesson when the Piper PA-28 she was flying developed engine trouble. This included falling oil pressure and oil fumes inside the cockpit.

Realizing the aircraft would not make it back to the airport, Shelton declared an emergency and safely guided the plane onto Interstate 10 in Pensacola. She maneuvered beneath an overhead highway sign and avoided vehicles. As a result, she brought the aircraft to a stop without injuring herself, her student or anyone on the ground.

Video of the landing quickly spread across the country, earning Shelton widespread praise for her quick thinking, training and calm response. Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons later presented her with the Sheriff’s Medal for her exceptional airmanship and composure under pressure.

Emily Shelton Flies with Blue Angel No. 7

On September 11, Shelton climbed aboard an F/A-18 Super Hornet for a flight with Blue Angel No. 7, Lt. Cmdr. Ronnie Hafeza.

The invitation came directly from the Blue Angels, who contacted Shelton following her emergency landing. She initially thought the message might be a joke. However, it soon turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Pensacola’s hometown flight demonstration team.

Shelton is accustomed to flying smaller training aircraft and regularly sees the Blue Angels practicing over Pensacola. This time, however, she traded the instructor’s seat for a firsthand look at the speed, precision and power of naval aviation.

Before taking off, Shelton said her focus during the I-10 emergency had been getting herself and her student safely back on the ground. She also made sure no one below was placed in danger.

Now, she hopes the attention surrounding her story will encourage more young women to explore careers in aviation.

Watch Emily’s Blue Angels Experience

From safely landing an aircraft on one of Pensacola’s busiest highways to soaring above the Gulf Coast with the Blue Angels, Emily Shelton’s story is an inspiring example of preparation, courage and remaining calm when it matters most.

Watch the video from her unforgettable flight below.