Born: 1907 (Cairo, Egypt)
Died: 2002
Biography:
Lotfia Elnadi (Arabic: لطفية النادي; October 29, 1907 – 2002) was an Egyptian aviator who made history as the first Egyptian woman, and the first woman from the Arab world and Africa, to earn a pilot’s license. Her groundbreaking achievements paved the way for women in aviation and left an indelible mark on Egyptian society.
Lotfia Elnadi was born on October 29, 1907, into an upper-class family in Cairo. Although societal norms at the time dictated that she should have followed a conventional path of marriage and motherhood after completing her primary education, her father, who worked for the government printing office, had reservations about her pursuing further education. Despite her father’s objections, Elnadi’s mother recognized her daughter’s potential and encouraged her to attend the American College, where she received a modern education with a focus on language studies.
Elnadi’s passion for aviation was ignited when she read an article about a newly opened flying school in Cairo. Determined to pursue her dreams, she initially sought assistance from a journalist, but when he declined, she approached the director of EgyptAir, Kamal Elwi, with her request for support. Recognizing the opportunity for positive publicity, Elwi agreed to help her.
With no means to pay for flying lessons, Elnadi took up a position as a secretary and telephone operator at the flying school, exchanging her services for tuition. Concealing the true nature of her activities from her father, she would tell him she was attending a study group every other week. Elnadi embarked on her flight training alongside 33 male classmates.
In a remarkable display of determination, Elnadi earned her pilot’s license on September 27, 1933, after just 67 days of study. This achievement made her the first African and Arab woman pilot in the world. Initially met with anger from her father, the favorable press coverage and public acclaim quickly turned his sentiment around. He even agreed to accompany Elnadi on a flight over the pyramids, showcasing her incredible achievement.
Elnadi’s success reverberated around the world, making headlines and inspiring countless women. Her impact was felt not only in Egypt but in the global aviation community. On December 19, 1933, she participated in the international race between Cairo and Alexandria, piloting her single-engine plane to victory before any other competitors. Her impressive feat earned her a prize of £E200 and the congratulations of King Fuad. Huda Sha’arawi, a prominent feminist leader, also expressed admiration for Elnadi’s accomplishments and organized a fundraising drive to purchase her a plane of her own.
Following her victory, Elnadi worked as the secretary general of the Egyptian Aviation Club. She continued her flying career for approximately five years until she suffered a severe accident that damaged her spine. Despite her early retirement from flying, Lotfia Elnadi’s impact continued to resonate. Inspired by her pioneering spirit, other Egyptian women pursued flight training over the next decade, contributing to the growing presence of women in aviation.
Lotfia Elnadi’s passion and determination forever changed the trajectory of women in aviation. Her historic accomplishments paved the way for future generations of female pilots and challenged societal norms about the role of women. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower women, not only in Egypt but across the entire Arab world.
Awards:
– First African and Arab woman pilot in the world (1933)
– Winner of the international race between Cairo and Alexandria (1933)