Founded in 1925, Delta is one of America’s most commonly used airlines, although there has been much controversy within the company.
However, it wasn’t until 2010 that Delta hired its first African-American female pilot. After flying for Northwest Airlines in 1997, Stephanie Johnson became the first African-American woman to achieve the rank of captain.
When asked in an interview with The New York Times, Capt. Johnson stated: “Eventually, I hope that seeing an African-American woman pilot is as normal as seeing people of all genders and ethnic backgrounds as passengers on a plane.”
She has flown for over two decades, paving the way for other potential pilots to join the ranks as airmen.
Capt. Johnson has lamented enjoying the pleasure of “encouraging young people to pursue their dream of flying” as the director of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals’ Aviation Career Education Academy in Cleveland. She recognizes the example she sets for other young aviators.
In an article on the Delta News Hub, Capt. Johnson shares, “When I was hired by Northwest Airlines, there were 12 African-American women airline pilots in the country at the major airlines, and I knew all of their names… I feel a great sense of responsibility to be a positive role model.”
While in college at Kent State University, she learned how to spread her wings. Mastering the technique, she became a flight instructor for the aviation program. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in aerospace technology, she landed her first job with Mesa Airlines as a commercial pilot. In 1997, she broke a barrier by becoming the first black female pilot for Northwest Airlines.
Happy to fulfill her dream of flying, Johnson says her proudest accomplishment is allowing others to soar. Last year, she was director of the Cleveland Aviation Career Education Academy and has been a part of the Detroit Aviation Career Education Academy, giving high school students the chance to learn about aviation.
“I feel a great sense of responsibility to be a positive role model. There are so few women in this profession and too many women who still don’t think of it as a career option,” Johnson said.
“When I was hired by Northwest airlines, there were 12 African-American women airline pilots in the country at the major airlines, and I knew all of their names.”
I love this about our beautiful African American female Captain, she’s a trail blazer. My SISTA GIRL is handling her business ❤️ and I love it. She’s awesome and makes us African American women so PROUD. We’ve come a long way baby. Thanks for being you ❤️ May God continue to Bless her 🙏 I wish safe travels always for you Captain Johnson.
There’s no place for a woman in the cockpit. In case of emergency, two men require all their strenght to maintain control. This PR stunt puts the public at risk. I’ll never fly Delta again.
This is the dumbest comment ever. As a Latina woman as yourself, this is why you need to read above the 3rd grade level.
WOW!!! That’s very backwards thinking, Ma’am. So, where are the places for woman in 2023?????
You are obviously not a pilot. Well I am a retired military pilot with 24 years of flying experience. Women are just as capable of handling any emergency in an airplane as a man. What is required in a time of crises is mental strength rather than physical strength.
U DON’T HAVE TO ITS READERS AND JUDGEMENTAL PEOPLE LIKE URSELF MAKE THE POPULATION SIGHT’S DWINDLE BUILDING UP EACH OTHER IN THIS WORLD 🌎🌎 TODAY OF ANY KIND TO MAKE IT LIVEABLE FOR MEN OR WOMEN COMES ALONG WITH ALL. OF OUR HELP
I don’t think she knows that mostly female stewardes open and close the heavy airplane doors.
Capt. Johnson seems to be representing Delta well. I’m a retired Delta pilot, and I congratulate her on her accomplishments. As an aside, the author of this article and the editors need to try harder. (I’m pretty certain Capt Johnson doesn’t lament enjoying her influence on young people.)