Maryam Mujtaba is Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK)’s first woman to become a pilot who has been acknowledged by AJK President Sardar Masood Khan for her stellar contributions to the industry and an inspiration for young women.
She was always curious about flying planes and wanted to become a part of the aviation industry.
Back in 2011, Mujtaba joined Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) as a cadet pilot. After receiving her training from academies in Rawalpindi and America, she completed her flying hours through various domestic flights.
After she completed her required flying hours, she recently got promoted as a first officer by the national flag carrier. The young achiever currently operates the PIA Airbus A-320 aircraft in various countries of the world.
Today, during an interview on Geo Pakistan, Geo News, the commercial pilot appear in a pilot uniform and recalled her journey. She also shared about her inspiration, Captain Ayesha Rabia, who was also a captain in PIA.
“When I was a child, I was very excited to see a woman flying planes and I told my father that girls can fly planes too,” the pilot remembered, adding that it wasn’t always smooth sailing, but things turned out in her favor.
She also gave credit to her family, mentors, and colleagues who were there for her in pursuing her dream.
Upon asking if she ever encountered discrimination in the male-dominated aviation industry, Mujtaba said that she never experienced any such discrimination, but was instead welcomed at every step of her career.
Maryam Mujtaba advised aspiring women to become pilots and those who belong to other fields, she emphasized that confidence is the key to success.
“You should always be confident about what you are doing and take charge of your responsibilities.”
The pilot concluded.
