Female Aviator Shukriya Khanum Makes History as First Commercilly Licensed Woman Pilot in Pakistan
Ladies Who Soared: The Life of Shukriya Khanum, First Female Commercial Pilot of Pakistan
Fly high, sisters! Today we're exploring the inspiring tale of a trailblazing woman in the world of aviation: Shukriya Khanum, the first female commercial pilot in Pakistan. Buckle up and let's dive into her amazing story.
Childhood Dreams and Overcoming Adversity
Born in 1935, Shukriya Khanum grew up in Pakistan, her dreams of soaring through the skies likely burning bright like a star. Despite facing numerous challenges, she wouldn't let anything stand in her way. In 1959, at the age of 24, Khanum graduated from the Government College in Lahore and shortly after, obtained her flying license from Lahore Flying Academy in Walton Airport, Lahore, becoming the first woman to become a commercial pilot in the country.
A Career Cut Short
Though she received her commercial pilot's license, the future wasn't all clear skies for Khanum. At the time, women in Pakistan were barred from flying commercial planes, stopping her from utilizing her skills to the fullest. However, she refused to let that discourage her. Instead, she took a position teaching new trainees how to fly at Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and gave flight sessions to aviation enthusiasts at the Karachi Flying Club.
Unfortunately, in the late 1970s, changes in the regime made it even more challenging for women to work in aviation, forcing Khanum to stop flying completely. After this, her duties were limited to ground-based flight instruction.
A Legacy Lives On
Despite the restrictions, Khanum became an icon for women in aviation in Pakistan. Decades later, an aviator named Ayesha Rabia broke down the barriers that Khanum had faced, becoming the first Pakistani female commercial pilot to fly without limitations. Rabia sought out Khanum's advice and guidance, reflecting the profound impact Khanum continues to have on the industry.
Shukriya Khanum sadly passed away on May 14, 2017, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Pakistani aviation. Her courage, determination, and drive remind us all that it's possible to overcome even the toughest odds, and that dreams are within reach for everyone, regardless of their gender.
Further Reading
Recommended Article: Get a peek into the luxurious skies with Tiger Woods and his private jet, Gulfstream G550
Resources
- Encyclopedia Britannica, Shukriya Khanum, [https://www.britannica.com/biography/Shukriya-Khanum]
- BBC News, Shukriya Khanum: Pakistan's first female commercial pilot dies, [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-39922670]
Shukriya Khanum, despite adversity and societal norms, revolutionized the Pakistani aviation industry by becoming the first female commercial pilot in 1959. her achievements inspired another trailblazer, Ayesha Rabia, who broke subsequent barriers in aviation. Khanum's lasting influence in the realm of science, health-and-wellness (demonstrated by her challenging physical demands of flying), and sports (specifically aviation and sports-analysis) continues to impact Pakistani women today. The story of Tiger Woods' luxurious journeys in his Gulfstream G500 private jet also deals with aviation and sports.
