We lift others as we climb; to believe, achieve, succeed, and lead in aviation and aerospace.
Photo: Sian Proctor, Ph.D. | Astronaut, Artist, Geoscience Professor
Our Mission
The Grand Dames inspire women to believe, achieve, and succeed in aviation and aerospace. Whether you’re an experienced aviator, in training, or passionate about supporting flight.
We believe that cultivating the innovation, talent and leadership of women is critical for the successful future of aviation and aerospace. We celebrate extraordinary achievements. We educate through scholarships. We inspire through mentorship and networking.
It is more important than ever to support talented women thriving and advancing in this amazing industry. We are joining forces and collaborating with others to make that happen and give back to the industry we love.
Featured Grand Dame
Olga Custodio
Author, Grand Dame Board Member, Pilot
Olga Custodio, Grand Dame Board Member, first Latina pilot in the U.S. Air Force, and a pioneering Hispanic female captain in commercial aviation, attended the Women In Aviation conference last month as an honoree who was inducted into the Pioneer Hall of Fame. She defines her success through three principles: overcome self-doubt, stay open to possibilities, and see yourself as an equal.
After flying the T-38 as an instructor pilot, she served 24 years in the Air Force and retired as a lieutenant colonel. Olga then flew with American Airlines on the Boeing 727, Fokker 100, Boeing 757 and 767, accumulating over 11,000 hours of flight time and retiring as a captain. As a STEM advocate, Olga is a speaker serving as a role model for aspiring aviators. She is a tireless volunteer to inspire and educate students, especially from underserved communities. Her memoir Flightpath of Fortitude includes Olga’s essential life insights of how to overcome barriers and achieve your dreams.
2026 SCHOLARSHIP OPEN
The 2026 Grand Dames of Aviation Scholarship Program is open!
Whether you’re pursuing a career in the cockpit, advancing aviation through STEM, or following your passion for flight, we encourage you to apply.
ProAvi Pilot Scholarship — $2,000
For women pursuing professional pilot careers.
ProAvi STEM Scholarship — $2,000
For women pursuing STEM careers in aviation.
Wings of Change Junior Scholarship — $1,500
For aviation enthusiasts with a passion for helping others through volunteer service, ages 14–22.
Wings of Change Senior Scholarship — $1,500
For aviation enthusiasts with a passion for serving their communities through charity service and leadership, ages 23 and up.
Applications Open: June 30, 2026
Applications Close: August 31, 2026
At the Grand Dames of Aviation, our mission is to celebrate, educate, and inspire women to believe, achieve, succeed, and lead in aviation.
Your journey starts with a dream. Let us help you take the next step.
Featured Dames Gallery
“My ambition is to have this wonderful gift produce practical results for the future of commercial flying and for the women who may want to fly tomorrow’s planes.”
— Amelia Earhart