On February 24, 2021, Afghanistan soared to new heights – literally and figuratively – with its first all-female crewed flight. Operated by Kam Air, the country’s only private airline, this historic journey marked a powerful stride towards gender equality in a nation where women’s rights have long been under siege.

Afghanistan’s first female pilot, the trailblazing 22-year-old Mohadese Mirzaee, piloted the flight from Kabul to Herat. Yet, despite the significance of this achievement, it was carried out in complete secrecy. Passengers had no idea about the all-female crew, illustrating how difficult it is to celebrate such milestones openly in a society where gender roles remain deeply entrenched.

Josh Cahill, a renowned aviation YouTuber who played a crucial role in organising and documenting this groundbreaking event, was full of praise for the crew’s courage and skill. While the international community celebrated this milestone, the response within Afghanistan was quieter, reflecting the deeply ingrained challenges of openly acknowledging such progress.

This wasn’t just a milestone for women in aviation; it was a beacon of hope for women everywhere defying the odds. It showed the world that determination and solidarity could shatter even the most entrenched societal norms. This flight was a statement – a declaration that change is possible, and dreams, no matter how lofty, are worth chasing.

Taliban’s rise

To honour their bravery, the crew and Cahill received the prestigious ‘Aviation Achievement Award’ on International Women’s Day 2021. Presented by Vygaudas Ušackas, the former EU Ambassador to Afghanistan, the award acknowledged the historic nature of their accomplishment. But the celebrations were short-lived. Just months later, when the Taliban took control of Kabul in August 2021, everything changed. Women’s freedoms, including their right to work, were swiftly and cruelly curtailed.

As Kabul descended into chaos, the crew faced harrowing escapes. Pilot Mohadese Mirzaee and Ukrainian captain Veronika Borisova fled to Bulgaria, where they now fly together, embodying resilience. Flight purser Arefa Ahmadi resettled in the U.S., while Shagufa Haidary moved to Germany after initially finding refuge in Ukraine. Nargis Mahmoodi, stranded in Kabul, was evacuated to Brazil through international efforts, where she began a new life. The whereabouts of the fifth crew member, Freshta Darwish, remain unknown, with reports suggesting she may have stayed in Afghanistan.

A symbol of hope and progress

Looking back, it’s clear this was far more than just a flight. It was a symbol of resilience, courage, and the unyielding spirit of women determined to rise above the odds. Mohadese and her crew didn’t just make history – they ignited hope for countless women around the world, proving that some barriers are meant to be broken.

Afghanistan’s first all-female crewed flight reminds us that while the road to gender equality is long, it’s worth every step. With courage and persistence, we can continue to defy gravity – soaring higher, breaking limits, and inspiring others to follow.

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