While most teens are still figuring out parallel parking, Jonathan Suarez is out here flying his mom to Ocean City for her birthday like it is no big deal. At just 17, this Philadelphia high schooler is a licensed pilot—taking off before he could even drive solo. Forget catching an Uber; Jonathan’s idea of a weekend trip is hopping into the cockpit and soaring above the city.
The Dream Took Off Early
Jonathan’s love for aviation started in sixth grade. “I said, you know what, I want to do this. So I started to pursue it ever since,” he recalls. Unlike most kids his age who were dreaming about getting a car, he was already thinking about how to get his wings.
But making that dream happen? That took a hustle. Instead of going the traditional route, Jonathan took a chance at Frankford High School’s Aviation Academy in Philadelphia. This program lets students learn flight theory and start hands-on training at Northeast Philadelphia Airport. It was not the “popular” choice, and some people doubted him. “Frankford is not known for being the best high school,” he admits. But he was not here for reputation; he was here to fly. And fly he did.
First Solo Flight? No Pressure.
Jonathan describes his first solo flight like it was yesterday: the adrenaline, the shaky hands on the controls, the way the runway disappeared beneath him. “It was not the best wind conditions, there was turbulence, but it was definitely an experience I will never forget,” he says. While most teens are focused on midterms and prom dates, he was cruising at thousands of feet in the air, commanding the skies.
By junior year, he became the first in his program to earn his private pilot’s license—just a day after turning 17. Think about it: most kids his age are waiting for a ride. Jonathan? He is offering them flying experience.
Flying Friends and Family—Literally
One of the coolest perks of being a teenage pilot? Turning everyday trips into unforgettable experiences.
One time, he flew a classmate across the state to visit her sister—turning what would have been an exhausting bus ride into a first-class, bird’s-eye adventure. And then there was his mom’s birthday trip to Ocean City, NJ. While most moms get flowers or dinner, she gets an actual private flight with her son as the pilot. “That was really special,” Jonathan says.
Beyond the Cockpit: Music and Motivation
Aviation is not Jonathan’s only passion. Music plays a huge role in his life, giving him the motivation to push forward. He’s big on Latin and Spanish Christian artists like Redimi2, Alex Zurdo, Gabriel EMC, and Anti-Ateo—the kind of music that fuels both his flights and his grind.
Right now, Jonathan is attending Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) with plans to transfer to Temple University in North Philadelphia. But make no mistake—his sights are set far beyond the classroom. He has big plans to inspire more young people, especially those who think their dreams are out of reach.
The Ultimate Takeaway? Just Go For It.
Jonathan knows what it is like to be doubted. “People did not believe me,” he says. “They were just like, well, he is getting flight hours, but he is not going to get his pilot license.” He let his actions do the talking instead of proving them wrong with words.
His advice to anyone chasing a goal? “If you are going to do it, do it to the best of your ability. Give it 100%, and you will make it. And trust in God.”
So, next time you think a dream is too big, just remember—Jonathan Suarez is out here, 17 years old, a Philadelphia teen, flying airplanes like it’s no big deal. What is stopping you from taking off?
Jonathan thanks the School District of Philadelphia, the Mayor, and supporting young adults for the opportunity.
Diamond Jones joined the FunTimes family as an intern while earning her Bachelor’s degree from Temple University. After graduating in 2018, Diamond decided to stay with FunTimes continuing her role as a writer and content creator for social media. In addition to writing, she also enjoys reading, traveling, and art. Working at a magazine has always been a dream. As a child, she would collect and study popular entertainment publications such as Word Up and Teen Vogue. Diamond hopes to continue to create content that will inspire and entertain.
