Julie Ann Gibson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Julie Ann Gibson
Born	1963 (age 61–62)
Nationality	United Kingdom
Education	City, University of London
Known for	First female pilot for the RAF
Aviation career
Famous flights	C-130 Hercules, HS 780 Andover
Air force	Royal Air Force
Rank	Flight Lieutenant

Julie Ann Gibson made history as the first full-time female pilot for the Royal Air Force (RAF). She achieved this amazing feat when she finished her training in 1991. Before becoming a pilot, she worked as an officer on the ground. Later, she was chosen to learn how to fly planes. After her training, she joined No. 32 Squadron RAF. There, she flew Hawker Siddeley Andover planes. When she was promoted to Flight Lieutenant, she started flying bigger Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft from RAF Lyneham.

Julie Ann Gibson's Early Life and Education

Julie Ann Gibson was born into a military family. Her father was a Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy. Because of his job, Julie travelled a lot when she was a child. Her family moved often to different ports around the world.

University Studies and Flying Lessons

Julie went to the City, University of London. She graduated in 1983 with a degree in aeronautical engineering. This means she studied how planes are designed and built. While at university, she also learned how to fly. She joined the University Air Squadron, which is a group for students interested in flying.

Joining the Royal Air Force

In 1984, Julie Gibson joined the Royal Air Force College Cranwell. This is where RAF officers get their training. After her officer training, she was sent to RAF Honington in Suffolk. Her first job was to lead a team of 75 engineers.

Leading Teams and First Solo Flights

In her next role, she was in charge of 160 men. They worked with McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II jets. These jets were used for tactical weapons. In 1990, Julie took her first solo flights. She flew by herself at RAF Linton-on-Ouse. Another female pilot, Sally Cox, also took her first solo flights around the same time.

Becoming the First Female RAF Pilot

Julie successfully applied for pilot training. She trained in the Advanced Flying Training Wing. On June 14, 1991, she graduated as the first female pilot in the RAF. This happened at No. 6 Flying Training School RAF, located within RAF Finningley. She was the second female aircrew member in the RAF. Anne-Marie Dawe was the first, qualifying as a navigator in March 1991.

Flying Different Aircraft

After graduating, Julie was assigned to No. 32 Squadron RAF. She flew Hawker Siddeley Andover planes from RAF Northolt. Later, she was promoted to Flight Lieutenant. She then started flying the larger Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft. She flew these planes from RAF Lyneham.

See also

• Jo Salter - first female combat pilot for the RAF