March is Women’s History Month, and this year we’re proud to recognize some of the remarkable women — from aviators to engineers and community leaders — whose contributions have helped shape the field of aviation. These trailblazers share North Carolina roots and deep ties to flight, innovation and leadership.

Viola Gentry

Born in Rockingham County, Viola Estelle Gentry was a pioneering aviator best known for setting the first non-refueling endurance flight record for women in 1928. She learned to fly in 1924, becoming the first woman from North Carolina to pilot an airplane and helping to expand opportunities for women in early aviation. Gentry continued promoting flight throughout her life and was recognized for her courage and dedication to aviation history.

Myrtle “Kay” Cagle

Myrtle “Kay” Thompson Cagle, a native of Selma, North Carolina, was a gifted pilot, instructor and aviation ambassador. She became one of the select group of women involved with the Mercury 13, the group of female aviators who participated in astronaut testing during the early NASA space program. In addition to her flying achievements, Cagle ran a Triangle-area airport and charter service, wrote for the News & Observer and other local media outlets, and taught flight to thousands of students.

Tiny Broadwick

Born in Oxford, North Carolina, in 1893, Georgia Ann “Tiny” Broadwick was a pioneering parachutist and aerial performer. Broadwick was the first woman to jump from an airplane. She is credited with inventing the parachute ripcord, a safety innovation that has saved countless lives. Her daring spirit and contributions to aerial safety make her a standout figure in early aviation history.

Katharine Stinson

Katharine Stinson forged a path in engineering at a time when few women entered the field. Born in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, in 1917, she found her first aviation job working as a mechanic at just 15 at the former Raleigh Municipal Airport. Stinson earned her degree in mechanical and aeronautical engineering from North Carolina State University and went on to become the first female aeronautical engineer hired by the Federal Aviation Administration. Stinson helped develop safety standards and contributed to advancements in aircraft design and certification. NC State later recognized her with the naming of Katharine Stinson Drive, located on campus near Hillsborough Street.

RDU’s First All-Female Board Leadership Team

The Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority observed a milestone in 2025, as it welcomed its first all-female Board leadership team — Chair Tammie Hall-Roberts, Vice Chair Nina Szlosberg-Landis, Secretary Yesenia Polanco-Galdamez and Treasurer Shelley Winters. Their leadership and vision is helping guide RDU’s growth and transformation.