Natasha Mehl is the youngest pilot in Zambia today. She looks it too – wide eyed, inquisitive frown, warm smile and braces.
At a recent aviation summit in Zambia, we bonded over the Concorde – the most beautiful thing in the sky ever built! I showed her the one and only photograph of the Concorde in flight, taken from a fighter plane, I have on my phone. The Concorde had to slow down to indulge.
“I hope to see it back in the skies someday,” she said. “It was one of the best aircraft ever manufactured offering a unique combination of fighter jet capabilities and a commercial airliner’s comfort.”
During an open forum she spoke of a narrow escape she had once taxiing for take-off. Though she was cleared, she found herself directly in the way of a landing. Quick thinking and fresh skills to the rescue. I had to know more – becoming a pilot was a keen one in my own ambition radar growing up.
What was the inspiration to become a pilot? The factors that contributed to making you the youngest pilot in Zambia today.
Becoming a pilot has been a dream since childhood. I grew up traveling with my parents and grandmother, and every visit to the airport left me in awe of the pilots in their uniforms, the majestic aircraft, and the powerful sound of the engines. These experiences ignited a deep passion for aviation, and from a young age, I knew I wanted to become a pilot. What ultimately led me to become the youngest pilot in Zambia was the unwavering support of my parents. They have always believed in me and supported every decision I made.
Another key factor was the dedication and commitment of my flight instructors and school, the Professional Flight Centre in Pretoria, South Africa, who ensured I received the best guidance and assistance throughout my journey.
Above all, my faith has been a constant source of strength. Knowing He is with me every step of the way gives me the confidence, resilience, and determination to pursue my dreams with unwavering conviction.
Becoming a pilot is not common, nor easy – it takes a lot of support. How did your parents take your decision to become one?
My mum worked in the corporate sector and my dad is an entrepreneur. When I first told them I wanted to become a pilot, they thought I was joking, especially since I brought it up at such a young age. They believed I was just getting ahead of myself. However, the funny thing is, even though they had their doubts, they still supported me and believed I could make it happen.
At the time, my grandmother had a friend who worked for a charter company in Zambia, and she asked him if he could arrange for me to visit and see how the pilots worked. He kindly agreed. My dad would often drive me to the airport and wait for me while I took the tours.
When I got to secondary school, my parents started to realize that I was serious about becoming a pilot. By grade 10, my mum was already researching flight schools and all the necessary requirements to pursue this path.
My parents have been with me every step of the way, offering unwavering support. Even during the tough times, when I struggled mentally and couldn’t grasp certain concepts in flight school, they always encouraged me to stay focused. Their belief in me kept me going, and it played a crucial role in helping me overcome challenges along the way.
The first solo flight is, I have heard, is the stuff of dreams. Can you describe yours?
Honestly, there are no words in the dictionary that can fully capture how my first solo flight felt. It was the best day of my life. I went solo just a day after my birthday, and at the time, I didn’t think I was ready. I had struggled with learning how to land, and I couldn’t believe that I had finally mastered it.
The whole experience felt surreal, and I was overwhelmed with a rush of happy emotions. That solo flight not only marked a major milestone in my aviation journey but also made me stronger mentally. It taught me that I am capable of doing hard things and overcoming any challenges that come my way. I remember that first solo flight like it was yesterday, and sometimes I wish I could go back in time and relive that pure joy all over again.
What are your career goals as a young pilot starting out?
My short-term career goals are to become a commercial pilot and a flight instructor. In the long term, I aspire to own a low-cost carrier airline and a flight school. I’m passionate about giving back the invaluable experiences and knowledge I’ve gained over the years, and I believe owning a flight school would allow me to shape and mentor the next generation of skilled pilots.
Another long-term goal of mine is to become a human factors specialist and advocate for mental health awareness among pilots. I strongly believe that for aviation to remain safe and for pilots to perform at their best, they need to be in a good mental space at all times. This can only be achieved if they are given the support and resources to seek help openly and address their mental health needs.
Any particular aircraft you would like to fly? Favourite manoeuvres?
There are several aircraft I’d love to fly, like the F-15 and other fighter jets. I’m captivated by the incredible manoeuvres they perform and the speeds they can reach. While I would still have the opportunity to fly fighter jets, it would require joining the military, and I feel that my career goals and vision for the future may not align with that path.
My favorite manoeuvre is the loop manoeuvre, and while I haven’t had the chance to try it yet, it’s something I’m really looking forward to. The reason I haven’t attempted it yet is because of the type of aircraft I’m currently flying. I know it requires specific conditions and an aircraft that can handle the forces involved, but it’s definitely something on my aviation bucket list.
What is your advice to those who want to be a pilot? Some wise words from the one who did it.
My advice to anyone who wants to become a pilot is to be absolutely sure about your decision and to have a true passion for it. The journey to becoming a pilot is not easy, and flight school can be demanding. There will be sleepless nights, moments of frustration, and a lot of studying.
At times, it may even feel overwhelming. However, the only way to push through these challenges and achieve your dream is by being passionate about aviation. Passion will help you overcome the hurdles along the way. If you’re passionate, determined, disciplined, and resilient, you will make it. Keep your eyes on the goal and stay committed to your dream.
What do you think of Open Skies and SAATM working towards it? You need not answer this if you consider this political or for any other reason.
I think Open Skies and SAATM are a huge step in the right direction for the aviation world. They have the potential to make travel more affordable, improve connectivity, and create healthy competition among airlines. This could open up so many opportunities, not just for travelers, but also for airlines looking to expand their reach.
Any prominent aviation personality who is an inspiration?
Bob Hoover has always been a huge inspiration to me. His flying skills were beyond anything I could ever imagine, and his story is just incredible. From being a fighter pilot in World War II to becoming a legendary test pilot and aerobatic performer, he truly pushed the boundaries of what was possible in aviation.
What really stands out to me is how he made it all look so effortless, yet you could tell he had so much respect and love for the craft. His courage, skill, and the way he carried himself have always motivated me to keep pushing forward in my own aviation journey.
