Amanda Harrison: A Solo Female Pilot’s Journey Against All Odds
Inspired by her father, an engineer, Amanda Harrison aspired to be a pilot from a young age. Initially, she believed that aviation was a field predominantly accessible to the wealthy. However, her perspective changed upon learning about Amy Johnson, the first female pilot to fly solo from England to Australia in May 1930. Driven by her pioneering spirit, Amanda seized the opportunity to embark on her Solo2Darwin challenge, even after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. This is Amanda’s poignant story of resilience and determination amidst adversity.
Amy Johnson: An Influential Figure
Amanda’s journey was deeply influenced by Amy Johnson. While pursuing her commercial pilot’s license, Amanda encountered personal challenges, notably her mother’s battle with breast cancer. Discovering a lump in her breast propelled her into regular health checks, ultimately saving her life. Faced with overwhelming family illness—including the loss of her grandmother and her father’s deteriorating health—Amanda made critical decisions regarding her breast cancer surgery. Following her double mastectomy and reconstruction on December 28, 2017, Amanda lost her father shortly after, urging her to reevaluate her life’s direction. This moment solidified her resolve to undertake the Solo2Darwin challenge, reinforcing the notion that life is fleeting, thus motivating her to act.
Turning Dreams into Reality
Amanda’s compulsion to realize her dreams of flying intensified after her cancer diagnosis. By 2018, after clearing her medical examinations, she resumed her flying ambitions. Compiling a business plan, she calculated the costs to reach Australia while leaving her aircraft’s return journey in question—details she intended to iron out during her flights. Thus, she prepared to depart in May 2019.
Contrasts to Amy Johnson’s Journey
Although Amanda aimed to replicate Amy Johnson’s trailblazing route, the logistics differed significantly. While Amy seasoned her travel without precise weather forecasts or GPS, Amanda’s single-pilot journey demanded adherence to contemporary regulations and airspace restrictions. Amanda piloted a Tiger Moth, whereas Amy utilized a Gypsy Moth, a rare and costly aircraft today.
A Challenging Yet Rewarding Journey
The journey commenced under drizzly British skies at Biggin Hill Airport, quickly shifting to glorious sunshine as Amanda crossed the English Channel. Despite facing weather-driven diversions, notably to Saarbrücken instead of Mannheim, her journey continued. In Vienna—her first stop that mirrored Amy’s—she encountered a bird strike upon landing but pressed onward despite inclement weather.
The warmth and reception in Sibiu, Romania, enhanced the experience, transforming her visit into a memorable celebration as she inspired a local girl. Following picturesque flights through the Carpathian Mountains, she eventually navigated a significant engine failure after departing from Rhodes. After consulting evolving security situations, the Solo2Darwin attempt culminated in Beirut.
Experiential Insights on Isolation and Empowerment
Encountering extended solitary flight stretches over the Mediterranean proved both exhilarating and daunting. While challenges persisted, Amanda embraced the liberation that comes with solo flight, turning to the symbolic RVH sticker on her plane—her father’s initials—for strength during isolating moments. The mantle of being a solo female pilot represents profound independence, empowering Amanda to reclaim control over her journey following her cancer battle.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Future Adventures
Despite the challenges faced during Solo2Darwin, Amanda views her experience as a spectacular failure, inspiring further adventures. Future plans involve an attempted re-launch of the Solo2Darwin in September 2020, alongside discussions for a different challenge in the US, where she aims to emulate Amelia Earhart’s coast-to-coast journey in an autogiro, targeted for May 2020.
Follow Amanda on Instagram to keep up with her extraordinary journey and watch the Give-Get-Go trailer for Amanda’s travel story.
