Winner of the 1936 Bendix Trophy Race, a pioneering female aviator who broke records and paved the way for women in aviation.
Blanche Noyes, a trailblazing American aviator, made history by becoming one of the first ten women to receive a transport pilot's license in 1929, and Ohio's first licensed female pilot. Her remarkable achievements in the male-dominated world of aviation earned her a place in the annals of history, inspiring generations of women to take to the skies.
Born Blanche Wilcox on June 23, 1900, in Cleveland, Ohio, she gave up her acting career after marrying pilot Dewey L. Noyes in 1928. Her husband introduced her to flying, and she took to it like a bird, soloing after just four hours of training and receiving her pilot's license in June 1929.
In August 1929, Noyes participated in the inaugural Women's Air Derby, one of twenty competitors attempting to fly from Santa Monica, California to Cleveland. Despite a harrowing mid-air fire near Pecos, Texas, she put out the flames, made repairs, and resumed the race, placing fourth in the heavy class.
In 1931, she became a demonstration pilot for Standard Oil, and later teamed up with fellow aviator Louise Thaden to win the Bendix Trophy Race in 1936, setting a new world record of 14 hours, 55 minutes flying from New York City to Los Angeles in a Beech C17R Staggerwing biplane.
After her husband's tragic death in 1935, Noyes became a member of the Women's Advisory Committee on Aeronautics and joined the Air Marking Group of the Bureau of Air Commerce, working to aid aerial navigation and promote aviation safety.
Throughout her life, Noyes inspired countless women to pursue careers in aviation, and her pioneering spirit paved the way for future generations of female pilots. Her remarkable achievements have earned her a permanent place in the annals of aviation history.
Noyes was married to pilot Dewey L. Noyes, who tragically died in a plane crash in 1935. Despite this personal tragedy, she continued to pursue her passion for flying, leaving an indelible mark on the world of aviation.
Blanche Noyes' groundbreaking achievements have inspired generations of women to pursue careers in aviation, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of determination and perseverance, encouraging individuals to push beyond their limits and achieve greatness.
"Flying is not just a skill, it's a way of life." – Blanche Noyes
Noyes' contributions to aviation have been recognized through various awards and honors, cementing her place as one of the most influential female aviators of the 20th century.
Blanche Noyes' pioneering spirit, record-breaking feats, and tireless advocacy for aviation safety have left an enduring legacy, inspiring generations to come. Her courageous pursuit of her passion has earned her a permanent place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and trailblazers alike.
Born in 1897
Pioneering female aviator who broke records and pushed boundaries in flight, mysteriously disappearing during a attempted circumnavigation of the globe.
Born in 1909
A pioneering female pilot who broke numerous records and trained thousands of pilots, earning the nickname "Mama Bird" for her dedication to aviation education.
Born in 1892
First African American woman to earn a pilot's license, paving the way for others in aviation.
Born in 1875
First American woman to earn a pilot's license, breaking gender barriers in aviation, and also a pioneering screenwriter in the early film industry.
Born in 1903
A trailblazing woman who excelled in multiple fields, penning hit plays, reporting on politics, and serving as a diplomat, leaving a lasting mark on American culture and international relations.
