Mary Bush Shipko

  Mary Bush Shipko

“Women Airline Pilots 50-Year Changes”

Women airline pilots, celebrating our pioneers and inspiring young women today. Learn about the early woman airline pilots, the planes they flew, and what inspired them to become pilots.  Learn about the changes over the last 50 years.  Find out about today’s opportunities, programs, flight training, and more.  The presentation is both entertaining and informative.

About Mary

Aviation Pioneer and author Mary Bush Shipko was among the first women airline pilots in the country.  She began her flying career in 1964 in South Florida.  She was hired in May of 1976  as the first woman Airline pilot for Hughes Air West, owned by the colorful aviator Howard Hughes.  Mary received her airline transport rating and DC-3 type rating in November 1974.  She retired from Delta.  Today, she speaks around the country, inspiring young women to become airline pilots.

Mary Bush was born into an aviation family in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1949. From the time she was a toddler, she hung around the airport, and she started her formal flight training just before her 16th birthday. She flew a variety of aircraft out of both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International and Miami International Airports, in the Northwest corner, famously known as “Cockroach Corner” and “Corrosion Corner.” Mary flew World War II transport planes, including the Constellation and DC-6, to many exotic destinations.

Through her experiences, she brings an inspiring perspective on overcoming barriers, embracing opportunities, and leading with courage and support from family.   She has rebuilt her life and found joy and happiness. Her story of courage and overcoming setbacks is sure to inspire.