Mélanie Astles Aviation Journey

Mélanie is an Aerobatics pilot, inspiring keynote speaker and woman entrepreneur. World famous French air racing pilot, she is the first woman to have participated in the Red Bull Air Race, a high-level air competition.

Oh, where do I start?

My journey in aviation has been nothing short of a crazy roller coaster ride. It all began with this huge love for the skies when I was a kid at age 6. You know, every time I saw a plane, I just felt this big passion, like it was where I belonged. But getting there wasn't a walk in the park because no one believed in me. I juggled jobs, saved every penny, and poured everything into flying lessons.

And when I finally got into aerobatics, it was like finding my calling within my calling. Imagine dancing in the air, but with an airplane! And then, making it to the Red Bull Air Race as the first woman – that was just surreal!

How Aerobatics Captured My Heart

Aerobatics kind of swept me off my feet, really. Also when I was younger I wanted to become a fighter pilot, so it’s what was the closest.

I was already flying, but then I saw an aerobatic show, and it was like watching poetry in motion, up there in the sky. I thought, "I've got to do that!" It was all about pushing limits, doing these breathtaking manoeuvres and mastering the 3 dimensions, and I just loved it.

Learning to trust my plane and myself in those aerobatics figures was so exhilarating, also it gave me a target in life by starting the contest flying

A Moment That Stands Out

My proudest moment has got to be breaking into the Red Bull Air Race. Not just for me, but for what it represented. It was like standing at the finish line and saying, "Hey, we can do this too!" It was for every girl who dreams of flying, telling them the sky's truly not the limit. When I entered the red Bull Air Race it was a total change of my life, I quit my full-time job to become a full-time aerobatic pilot.

For the Budding Aerobatic Enthusiasts

If you're itching to try aerobatics, here's what I'd say: start with the basics and respect the learning curve. Find a club and find yourself a mentor who knows the ropes and can guide you. And be ready for a ride – it's as challenging as it is thrilling. Every roll and loop is a step forward, so keep at it, and don't lose sight of why you started. But first it’s better to have your pilot license to know the basics

Clearing Up Aerobatics Myths

There's this idea that aerobatics is all about daredevil stunts, but it's so much more. It's an art, really, all about precision, skill, and, above all, safety. Every figure and sequence are carefully planned and executed. It's not about taking risks; it's about mastering control.

The Toughest Part of the Journey Breaking stereotypes, for sure. Being a woman in this field meant facing doubts and hurdles at every turn. But it's about standing your ground and proving you deserve it, not just for you but for every woman who follows. It's tough, but hey, what's a journey without a few challenges?

Dreaming Up the Future

Looking ahead, I'm all about pushing my own limits and setting new benchmarks in aerobatics. But it's not just about my journey anymore. I want to open doors, lift others, and maybe make the path a bit smoother for the women who dream of the skies just like I did. The future's looking pretty exciting with some great projects, and I can't wait to see where it takes us!

This journey's up to now been amazing. It’s been challenging, yes, but oh so rewarding. And I'm just getting started. The sky's not the limit; it's just the beginning, and I'm ready for whatever comes next!

You can know more about me by visiting my website : www.melanieastles.com