Olga E. Custodio: Pioneering Latina Pilot in the U.S. Air Force and Commercial Aviation
Olga E. Custodio, born on January 22, 1953, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a trailblazer who shattered gender and ethnic barriers in aviation. Her remarkable career as the first Latina U.S. military pilot and later as a commercial airline captain has inspired countless individuals, particularly within the Latinx community.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in a military family, Custodio’s childhood was marked by frequent relocations across the globe, including stints in Taiwan, New Jersey, Iran, and Paraguay. This diverse upbringing fostered adaptability and resilience. Upon returning to Puerto Rico at age 15, she graduated from high school at 16 and enrolled in the University of Puerto Rico. There, she faced gender-based exclusion from the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), a setback that only fueled her determination to pursue a career in aviation.
Military Career
In 1980, Custodio’s perseverance led her to become the first Hispanic woman to complete the U.S. Air Force’s Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT), graduating in the top 5% of her class. She made history as the first female T-38 instructor pilot at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas. Throughout her 24-year tenure in the Air Force, Custodio earned accolades such as the Aviation Safety Award for superior airmanship.
Commercial Aviation
Transitioning to commercial aviation, Custodio joined American Airlines, becoming the first Latina to achieve the rank of captain. Over her career, she accumulated over 11,000 flight hours, piloting aircraft like the Boeing 727, Fokker 100, Boeing 757, and Boeing 767 across various international routes.
Advocacy and Legacy
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Custodio has been a passionate advocate for STEM education, aiming to inspire young women and students from underserved communities to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace. Her personal motto, “Querer es poder” (“Where there’s a will, there’s a way”), encapsulates her belief in the transformative power of determination.
External Resources
For additional insights into Olga E. Custodio’s life and legacy, visit:
