First female civil aviation pilot to graduate from Beihang with flying colors

(Peoples Daily Online)09:19, June 27, 2019

Wang Fan in flight training (Photo/Official WeChat account of Beihang University)

The first female civil aviation pilot is expected to graduate from Beihang University soon. Wang Fan, who is among the first batch of female students ever enrolled in Beihangs flight program, has completed her studies ahead of time.

Growing up with a dream of flying, Wang Fan became one of the first female pilots of Beihang in 2016. In just three years, she has finished the course, which lasts almost four years, with honors. She is now working on her graduation project and is expected to graduate this year.

Wang Fan in flight training (Photo/Official WeChat account of Beihang University)

I dont think female pilots are a special group. I see myself as a pilot, regardless of gender. You choose a career, and you take it seriously, Wang said.

Founded in 1993, the Flying College of Beihang University began recruiting female pilots in 2016. So far, a total of 33 female students have been admitted to the program, which includes 1.5-2 years of theory in China and 1-1.5 years of flight training abroad.