Sabiha Gökçen

Sabiha Gökçen, born on March 22, 1913, was a pioneering Turkish aviator and military personnel who made history as the world's first female fighter pilot at the age of twenty-three. Her remarkable journey began as an orphan, one of nine children adopted by the esteemed Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Throughout her illustrious flight career, Gökçen accumulated an impressive eight thousand flight hours and took part in thirty-two different military operations. Her contributions to aviation and military service have earned her a place in the annals of history, recognized by The Guinness Book of World Records as the first female combat pilot.

In 1996, she was honored as the sole female pilot featured on the poster titled 'The 20 Greatest Aviators in History,' published by the United States Air Force. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of aviators.

In recognition of her groundbreaking achievements, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, the second airport in Istanbul, proudly bears her name, ensuring that her contributions to aviation are remembered and celebrated.