Helen Richey: Breaking Barriers and Soaring High

The name Helen Richey stands as a testament to courage, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of women in the early days of flight. Despite the numerous obstacles she faced, Helen Richey not only became a famous female aviator but also paved the way for countless women to follow in her footsteps. In this blog post, we will delve into the inspiring life and accomplishments of Helen Richey, a trailblazer in the world of aviation.

The Early Life of Helen Richey and Her Passion for Flying

Helen Richey was born on November 21, 1909, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. Her passion for flying began at an early age when she saw a biplane flying overhead at a local fair. This moment ignited a lifelong fascination with aviation that would eventually lead her to break numerous gender barriers in the field.

Richey’s journey towards becoming a pilot was not easy. In an era when aviation was predominantly male-dominated, she faced skepticism and discrimination from those who believed that flying was a man’s pursuit. Undeterred by these challenges, she worked diligently to save money for flying lessons and earned her private pilot’s license in 1930.

Breaking Gender Barriers

Helen Richey’s determination did not stop at obtaining her pilot’s license. She set her sights on becoming a commercial pilot, which was a virtually unheard-of ambition for a woman in the 1930s. On December 31st, 1934, she made history by becoming the first woman to be hired as a co-pilot for a major U.S. commercial airline, Central Airlines (now part of United Airlines). On the day of her first flight as a female aviator, Helen Richey undoubtedly felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was a momentous occasion that would not only determine her future in aviation but also challenge gender norms in the industry. Richey took her seat in the cockpit, alongside Captain Joseph McCubbin, and prepared to take off.  As the aircraft taxied down the runway, the weight of history was on Richey’s shoulders. She was not just piloting a plane; she was breaking barriers for all women who aspired to fly professionally. The flight went smoothly, demonstrating her competence and skill as a pilot.

Her appointment as a co-pilot was groundbreaking, as it shattered the conventional belief that women could not handle the rigors of commercial aviation. Richey’s success inspired many women to pursue careers in aviation, and she quickly became a role model for aspiring female pilots.

Helen Richey’s Tenacity and Achievements

Helen Richey’s career continued to soar as she accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments:

1. Becoming the first woman to fly a regularly scheduled commercial flight in the United States.
2. Serving as a flight instructor and mentor to other female pilots, including famed aviator Jacqueline Cochran.
3. Participating in air races, setting speed records, and achieving recognition for her piloting skills.

Despite her numerous achievements, Richey faced constant challenges and gender bias throughout her career. This discrimination ultimately took a toll on her mental and emotional well-being, leading her to resign from Central Airlines in 1936.