María Cristina Maldonado is the first Colombian female pilot who is now flying in Vietnam and is one of the first Latin American female Captains in Asia. When she was a little girl, she said: “Boys used to play with cars and my friends with dolls, but I played with airplanes because I had a clear vision of what I wanted to be.” Mother of three beautiful kids made her career more challenging; as she has to look after her family as well. But her husband helps her and shares responsibilities at home. She says at the end of the day you adapt and finds balance with your family life.
Q) What is the first reaction when people see you as a female pilot?
María: A pilot is traditionally a male-dominated job. Occasionally, some passengers do act surprised by seeing a female captain, my experience has been very positive and encouraging, walking through the airports where I am greeted with many smiles is very exciting. But the most gratifying messages come from kids. It is inspiring to hear young people continue to dream about flying and becoming professional pilots.
Q.) To become a female pilot what are the most important qualities required?
María: Becoming an airline pilot is challenging in many ways, after overcoming the financial, academic, and personal challenges. Being a successful pilot requires many qualities, these qualities make no difference between male and female pilots. You have to overcome the challenges surrounding aviation.
It’s not just to operate an aircraft properly, it requires physical strength, and women are equally capable of achieving high standards in technical flying, multi-tasking, self – discipline, also one has to think and act under pressure, and constantly keep updating one’s knowledge. Pilots have the ability to lead a team, have good communication and cross-checking of each other’s work is a part of teamwork, to have the ability to adapt easily to changes, to learn to prioritize every aspect, become a better planner, and always be fit mentally and physically. These are actually the same skills for men and women.
Q.) Have you ever felt demotivated by the views of people. If yes, then how do you cope up with those moments?
María: I always wanted to create my own destiny; a profession such as a commercial pilot is always surrounded by great challenges. I talk about my hopes and fears; I try to be myself and honest about my strengths and weaknesses, and I encourage others to do the same.
The wisest advice I ever got from my Dad was to build my career on what I want, not on what others want for me. This means acknowledging that I can reach my goals if I possess the passion and drive.
Q) Any advice for young aspirants?
María : Through self-confidence, perseverance, and a strong sense of personal responsibility, I have not allowed my challenges to hold me back.
“Never give up, and follow your dreams. Flying is a passion above all things, and with hard study and commitment, it’s a beautiful career.”
I would like to thanks Captain María Cristina Maldonado for sharing her thoughts through this interview and taking out time from her busy schedule.
