Britain's youngest female pilot soaring past old stereotypes
Rachel Gilmour looks quite young, which often leads passengers to mistake her for a flight attendant. However, the reality is quite different. British media have celebrated her as the world's youngest female pilot.
At just 26 years old, according to British media, Rachel Gilmour from Scotland matched Kate McWilliams' 2019 record by becoming the youngest female captain of commercial airlines. Rachel works at Loganair.
Challenges and stereotypes in aviation
Due to her youthful appearance, Rachel is often mistaken for a cabin crew member. She admitted in an interview with "The Telegraph" that such misconceptions by travelers are also fueled by stereotypes that pilots are usually male. "I’ve been supported by the team and my colleagues and nothing [derogatory] has ever been said to me," the young captain admitted.
Although the number of female pilots is increasing, women still make up only about six percent of pilots worldwide. In the United Kingdom, the number of licenses for women increased by 26 percent between 2019 and 2023.
Great passion and hard work
Rachel wants to be a role model for young girls dreaming of a career in aviation. However, she does not hide the fact that ambition and hard work are essential to completing all training and obtaining a license. "You've got to be determined. The exams are tough," Rachel said. She also reminded that in the cockpit, the captain sits on the left side, while the first officer sits on the right. Although both collaborate, the captain makes the final decisions. "There are tough decisions to make. It's a big jump in responsibility," she emphasizes.
"I knew I wanted something dynamic. I love travel, and I knew aviation was the right fit for me. There's nothing like a clear, sunny day flying over the sea. Even though the routes are the same, the weather and conditions always make each flight unique," Rachel adds.
