Young Scottish pilot breaks barriers as aviation trailblazer
Rachel Gilmour looks like a teenager, often leading passengers to mistake her for a flight attendant. The reality is quite different. British media have hailed her as the world's youngest female pilot.
According to British media, at just 26 years old, Rachel Gilmour from Scotland matched Kate McWilliams' 2019 record, 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. In an interview with The Telegraph, she admitted that travellers' assumptions are also fuelled by stereotypes that pilots are usually male. The young captain acknowledged that while people often label others, he has consistently felt supported by his team and colleagues, who have never made disrespectful remarks.
Although female pilots are increasing, they comprise only about six percent of pilots worldwide. In the United Kingdom, the number of women licensed increased by 26 percent between 2019 and 2023.
Great passion and hard work
Rachel aspires to inspire young girls who dream of becoming pilots. She openly emphasizes that achieving this goal requires strong ambition and consistent effort throughout the demanding training and licensing process. According to her, determination is key, as the exams can be particularly challenging. She also pointed out that in the cockpit, the captain occupies the left seat and the first officer the right, while both work together, ultimate decisions rest with the captain. Stepping into this role, she notes, involves taking on significant responsibility and facing a steep learning curve.
Rachel shared that her passion for travel made aviation an ideal career path. Although the flight routes may remain constant, varying weather and conditions make every journey distinct and memorable.
