The Pioneering Spirit: First Women to Fly in Different Countries

Google recently celebrated the 107th birthday of Sarla Thakral with a Google Doodle, marking a significant moment in history for India and women in aviation. Thakral, as India's first woman pilot, achieved this milestone in an era where aviation was dominated by men, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. This article delves into the achievements of Thakral, along with other groundbreaking women in the realm of aviation.

Sarla Thakral: India's First Female Pilot

Born in India in the early 20th century, Sarla Thakral became India's first licensed pilot in 1936, 60 years before Raymonde de Laroche received her pilot's license in France. Thakral, a pioneering spirit, underwent rigorous training and earned her 'A' grade license after accumulating 1,000 hours of flying. Her journey was not only significant for India but also for the global community of women in aviation.

The First Woman Pilot: Raymonde de Laroche of France

Raymonde de Laroche, a French actress, holds the distinction of being the first woman to obtain a pilot's license in 1910. Her license was delivered by the Aéro-Club de France and was recognized by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). This milestone in aviation history was celebrated on March 8, the International Women's Day, marking an important achievement for women in the male-dominated field of aviation.

Other Pioneers in Aviaition

While the first women to fly in balloon and airship varied by location, their contributions remain significant in the history of aviation. Here's a brief look at some of these amazing firsts:

First Woman to Solo in a Balloon: Jeanne Labrosse (1788)

Before airplanes emerged, Jeanne Labrosse, a Frenchwoman, made aviation history in 1788 by becoming the first woman to solo in a balloon. This early flight paved the way for future balloonists and was a significant milestone in the history of aerial travel.

First Woman to Pilot a Dirigible (Airship): Aida de Acosta (1903)

Aida de Acosta, an American, was the first woman to pilot a dirigible airship, flying one of Alberto Santos-Dumont's airships in 1903. This event marked a significant moment for women in aviation, showcasing their capabilities to operate more complex aircraft than early balloons.

Unresolved Debates and Controversies

While there may be some dispute about the first woman to fly a heavier-than-air aircraft, the first to hold a pilot's license without contention is Raymonde de La Roche. Her license, issued by the French government, dated back to 1910, and her achievements continue to inspire women seeking to enter the aviation field.

These pioneering women, Sarla Thakral, Raymonde de Laroche, Jeanne Labrosse, and Aida de Acosta, have left a lasting legacy in aviation. Their stories serve as a reminder of the immense progress women have made in the field and the ongoing challenges that still exist. As we continue to celebrate their achievements, it's important to recognize and support more women in aviation today.