Biography:
Carol Rabadi is a Jordanian airline pilot and a trailblazer in the field of aviation. Born and raised in Amman, Jordan, Rabadi developed a passion for flying at a young age. It was during a flight from Cyprus back to Jordan, when she had the opportunity to sit in the jump seat, that she knew she wanted to pursue a career in aviation.
Rabadi’s pursuit of her dream led her to Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical science. Armed with a solid education and a determination to break barriers, she joined the Royal Jordanian airline in 1999, just two months after graduating.
Starting off as part of the ground crew, Rabadi’s journey to the skies was not without its challenges. The airline’s recruitment policy at the time required cadet pilots to gain experience on the ground before moving up to the cockpit. However, Rabadi’s tenacity and dedication saw her rise through the ranks quickly.
After two years of working on the ground, Rabadi finally got her chance to fly as a co-pilot. She gained invaluable experience flying on the Airbus A320 family and the Airbus A340 aircraft. Her skills and competence shone through, and in 2009, she made history as the second female captain in Jordan.
Rabadi’s first flight as captain with an all-female flight crew in October 2009 marked a significant milestone for both Royal Jordanian and the aviation industry as a whole. It was a testament to her skill, and also a reminder that gender does not limit one’s ability to excel in any field.
In addition to her role as a captain, Rabadi also took on important teaching and leadership positions within the airline. She served as a line instructor, a simulator instructor, and a line check captain on the A320 aircraft. Her expertise and experience made her a trusted mentor to aspiring pilots and a valuable asset to Royal Jordanian.
As her career progressed, Rabadi transitioned to flying the B787 wide-bodied aircraft, further expanding her skill set and cementing her reputation as an accomplished aviator. In recognition of her contributions and accomplishments, Rabadi was appointed as the Director of the Corporate Quality Management Department in Royal Jordanian Airlines.
Beyond her achievements in the aviation industry, Rabadi is also an active member of the Arabian section of the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of female pilots. Through her involvement, she continues to inspire and support women in pursuing their dreams of becoming pilots.
Rabadi’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and breaking through barriers. By shattering stereotypes and proving that gender should never limit one’s aspirations, she has made a lasting impact on the field of aviation and paved the way for future generations of female pilots.