Yolanda Kaunda becomes Malawi’s first ever female captain

Malawian Airlines pilot Yolanda Kaunda has become the country’s first ever female captain.

Kaunda has attained the rank of captain which is the highest level of responsibility.

Captain Kaunda’s jacket now has four bars on its sleeves, representing her new rank. While Malawi has had a female pilot before, Kaunda has become the first to reach the rank of captain.

The first female pilot, Fellie Mkandawire stopped flying while she was a senior first officer, which is a lower rank when compared with captain.

Mkandawire was among many Malawians who used social media to congratulate Kaunda. Posting on her Facebook wall, Mkandawire also dispelled confusions surrounding the announcement of Kaunda as Malawi’s first ever female captain.

“While I was the first female Malawian Pilot, there are, within the pilot profession, different ranks. I stopped flying some years back with the rank of senior first officer. Yolanda has just attained the rank of Captain.

“This is indeed a landmark achievement in Malawian aviation history. Congratulations captain,” wrote Mkandawire.

Poet Qabaniso Malewezi said: “The first Malawian Female captain… Congratulations Yolanda Kaunda. Friends in high places.” Travel Magazine also congratulated Kaunda writing: “ Malawi is proud to have the first ever captain and it is you madam. “You are a role model to many women and young ladies. Wishing you all the best.”