Amelia Earhart, Pilot Who Made History: 5 Interesting Facts On Her

Amelia Earhart epitomised the concept of "enlightened feminism," earning her the nickname "Lady Lindy" due to her resemblance to aviator Charles Lindbergh and her solo transatlantic flight, closely following his achievement.

Despite the mystery surrounding her disappearance, her genuine charisma, empathy, and extraordinary courage endeared her to people worldwide, transcending gender boundaries.

Earhart left an indelible mark on aviation history, accomplishing various records, such as becoming the second person to fly solo and nonstop across the Atlantic, and the first to achieve this feat across the United States. Her influence extended beyond aviation, impacting diverse fields like fashion and autogiro flight. Here are five intriguing facts about this legendary American aviator you might not be familiar with.

Plane Owner And Pilot License

Earhart took her first solo flight in 1921 and acquired her own aircraft, a Kinner Airster, in 1922. Without delay, she set a women's altitude record by reaching 14,000 feet. In 1923, she achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first woman and the 17th pilot overall to obtain her pilot's license from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale.

National Aeronautic Association's First Female Vice President

Earhart's election as the first female vice president of the National Aeronautic Association marked a historic moment. The association was responsible for overseeing aviation competitions. Recognizing the challenges faced by women, who lacked the resources and expertise to compete for "world" titles against men, she advocated for the establishment of separate female records, ensuring a fair platform for women in aviation.

Earhart, A College Professor

In 1935, Edward Elliott, the president of Purdue University and a strong advocate of women's education in engineering and science, extended an invitation to Earhart to teach as a visiting professor at the university. Initially aspiring to become a doctor, Earhart found herself assisting others in the realms of medicine and aviation. Elliott was equally enthusiastic about supporting Earhart's advancement in her aviation career.

Earhart's Fashion

As a prominent female figure in a male-dominated industry, Earhart had to overcome challenges, including cultural stereotypes. During her journeys, she often wore an ill-fitting flying suit or borrowed clothes from women at her destinations. During the late 1920s, Earhart founded the 'Ninety-Nines,' a women's flight organization, and in 1929, she personally designed a two-piece aviation suit for its members.

Her first design received extensive publicity, featuring a two-page spread in Vogue magazine, while she continued her role as a contributing editor for Cosmopolitan.

First Woman To Fly An Autogiro

In 1930, Earhart accomplished a groundbreaking feat as the first woman to pilot a Pitcairn-designed autogiro, an aircraft with rotating blades that facilitate increased lift and enable short takeoffs and landings. She achieved the inaugural autogiro altitude record and effectively accomplished two autogiro cross-country tours. However, her remarkable achievements were marred by three high-profile disasters during her endeavours.

Years after her presumed death, Earhart's contributions were acknowledged with her induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1968 and the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1973. To honour her legacy, numerous memorials have been dedicated across the United States, including an urban park, airport, residence hall, museum, research foundation, and various other tributes.

Suggested Reading: Amelia Earhart: The Aviation Icon Who Showed What Women Can Do