Feminine Vincentian-born American Airways pilot makes maiden touchdown in hometown
Historical past was created final week when Rochell Roache-Lanza turned the primary feminine American Airways pilot of Vincentian heritage to land on the Argyle Worldwide Airport (AIA).
Roache-Lanza piloted flight AA1427, which was a Boeing 737-800, from Miami to her homeland with over 100 passengers onboard.
The 43-year-old Bequia native obtained a water salute because the aircraft taxied to the airbridge.
Roache-Lanza has been flying for nearly 20 years.
She skilled in Guyana and operated planes in Nigeria and the Caribbean.
Roache-Lanza labored for Caribbean Star, SVG Air and LIAT earlier than taking on her place at American Airways.
A number of high-ranking public officers and Roache-Lanza’s family had been on the AIA to witness the event.
Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves stated St Vincent and the Grenadines is pleased with Roache-Lanza.
“It’s a second of nice satisfaction for the nation. It could seem like a small factor however it’s of nice symbolic significance. You may have this main worldwide provider with somebody from St Vincent and the Grenadines being a pilot. However on this case, it’s a girl. A younger girl who may be very achieved and skilled,” stated Gonsalves.
Roache-Lanza advised native radio that “the strain was on” as she landed in overcast situations at AIA.
“Everybody was anticipating a really easy touchdown, so I needed to ship,” she stated.
