At the age of 20, Ivorian trailblazer Ouloassia Jennifer Yhaye achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming one of the youngest airline pilots in Africa. Her journey is a testament to her determination, skill, and passion for aviation, setting a high bar for aspiring aviators across the continent.
Jennifer Yhaye’s academic journey began at Morning Glory International School (MGIS) in Abidjan, where she graduated in 2012. Demonstrating an early aptitude for STEM subjects, she pursued a baccalaureate in pure mathematics, physics, and instrumentation and control, which she completed by 2014. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, Yhaye’s linguistic skills complemented her technical prowess.
Determined to chase her dream of flying, Yhaye relocated to South Africa to enroll at the renowned 43 Air School (PTY) Ltd., a prestigious institution known for producing elite aviators. After two years of rigorous training, she earned her commercial pilot diploma in 2016.
Upon turning 20, Yhaye returned to her home country of Ivory Coast and joined Air Côte d’Ivoire. She quickly distinguished herself as a first officer on the DASH 8-Q400 aircraft with Asky Airlines. Her commitment and skill led her to further expand her qualifications, earning certifications to fly the ATR 42/72 and B 737 800. By July 2019, she had logged over 800 flight hours, an impressive feat for any pilot, particularly one so young.
Also, read; Alexis Williams Crowned Ms. Black Mississippi USA 2024: A Historic Achievement
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the aviation industry, the Ivorian State awarded Yhaye the Excellence Prize in 2019. This accolade underscored her exceptional achievements and steadfast dedication to her career. At the age of 24, she became one of the youngest pilots to fly a Boeing 737, a significant milestone that solidified her place in aviation history.
Yhaye’s accomplishments are particularly inspiring given the historical context of women in aviation. Africa saw its first female pilot in 1964, but the achievement did not immediately encourage a broader influx of women into the field. For many years, women predominantly pursued roles as flight attendants, with piloting remaining a male-dominated profession. However, over time, more women began to break into the aviation sector, driven by a desire for diversity and the pursuit of their dreams.
Today, women are increasingly represented in various aviation roles. A global survey indicates that the percentage of women pilots, air traffic controllers, and maintenance technicians has risen from 4.5% in 2016 to 4.9% in 2021. Notably, Africa boasts the highest percentage of women pilots globally, with an increase from 4.1% in 2016 to 5.2%.
Jennifer Yhaye’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young women across Africa and the world. Her story not only highlights the strides women have made in aviation but also encourages the next generation to reach for the skies, regardless of the challenges they may face.
