Alumni Catchup
We touch base with Didintle Khunou, who completed a Girls Fly Africa skills development programme in 2024, graduating as a fixed-wing flight instructor. Since completing her studies through the Girls Fly Africa programme, the Pretoria-based Grade III flight instructor at Loutzavia Flight Training Academy has been working to become a Grade II instructor and has her sights set on becoming an airline pilot.
Challenges along the way
Didi’s journey to becoming a flight instructor was not all plain sailing. However, previous work experience in aviation helped her transition to the cockpit. She had previously worked in flight operations and as cabin crew.
“The challenges I’ve faced have changed throughout my journey, ranging from financial to systemic and institutional barriers. However, what has always stood out to me was a lack of visibility and mentorship gaps. Despite these challenges, there are encouraging signs. Organizations such as Girls Fly Africa and trailblazers like Refilwe Ledwaba, who voluntarily provide guidance and mentorship as I progress in my career.” Didi says.
Through the GFA programme, Didi says she learnt a lot about the industry and herself. This includes risk management and responsibility, independence and accountability, situational awareness and decision-making, and adaptability and problem-solving.
Aviation: A lifelong passion
The 33-year-old flight instructor says that becoming a pilot was not just the achievement of a personal goal but the fulfilment of a dream. This childhood dream was born from spending countless hours watching planes flying over her home in the small township of Ga-Rankuwa, which lies below the Brits / Grand Central general flying area. Didi now gets to live out her dream with real-world aviation experience.
“I aspire to continue growing not only as a skilled aviator but also as a mentor in the cockpit. The satisfaction of seeing a student master a manoeuvre or overcome a challenge has shown me the value of guidance, patience, and leadership,” she says.
As someone who has already had the privilege of teaching others to fly, Didi’s dream extends beyond simply becoming an airline pilot. She also believes it is her duty to help others who have ambitions of becoming aviators.
“One day, I hope to serve as a training captain, passing on the knowledge and discipline I’ve gained to future pilots just as others have done for me. I see aviation not only as a career, but as a lifelong commitment to excellence, safety and continuous learning.” Didi said.
Following a dream
Since the path to realising her dream was not without obstacles, Didi has some advice for others who wish to follow in her footsteps. She says that being resourceful and resilient is important.
“First and foremost, flight training is not cheap. Plan financially and be resourceful. Secondly, there are going to be obstacles along the way such as doubt, isolation and bias. Don’t let them stop you. Last but not least, celebrate your wins (big or small). Every step forward is something to be proud of.” She affirms.
The aviation industry of the future
Looking ahead, Didi hopes to see an aviation industry that continues to grow not only in technology and safety but also in inclusivity, accessibility and sustainability.
“I hope to see more mentorship, more openness, and a deeper commitment to environmental responsibility, so that the skies we fly remain open and safe for generations to come. I want to be part of shaping that change not only by flying aircraft, but by helping lead a new chapter in aviation.” Didi says.
