I think this is a nice little Saudi Gazette/Okaz story about how some Saudi women spend their summer vacations. It certainly plays against the stereotype of the spoiled Saudi indulging herself in the fripperies of life. Rotana Osama Faqih, a medical student in the Kingdom, got her pilot’s license over the summer. I’d point out, too, that Saudi aviation students in Florida (where several of the Saudis who took part in the 9/11 attacks also studied) face a few extra hurdles in learning to fly.
Perhaps Ms Faqih will find a way to combine her interests and establish a flying medical service in the Kingdom. There are—and will be—areas remote enough to justify it, I think.
Saudi medical student swaps white coat for pilot’s uniform
Muhammad HadhadhJEDDAH – A Saudi medical student swapped her white coat for a pilot?s uniform and she landed safely at an airport in Florida in the US after getting her license there.
Rotana Osama Faqih, a 22-year-old Saudi woman who got her license in only three months, said she learned quickly because she was born to be a pilot. Her father, Osama Faqih, is a veteran captain for Saudi Arabian Airlines.
Rotana said she grew up with her father flying all over the world and bringing back lots of gifts from his destinations.
The souvenirs from distant lands made her dream of flying a plane, like her father, who is proud of being among the first Saudi pilots.
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September:26:2010 - 08:57
This is a great article to include, thank John. I sent it along to a young Saudi student who is hoping to be a pilot, after she gets her academics sorted. This will be great encouragement!
September:28:2010 - 23:36
My cousin is a medical doctor, she has a drivers license and a private pilots license… she sure is not the first
September:29:2010 - 07:03
Then all praises for your cousin, too. Tell her not to be a shrinking violet, though, and get herself noticed!