In a groundbreaking second, Rochell Roache-Lanza etched her title into the data of aviation historical past as she turned the primary feminine American Airways pilot of Vincentian heritage to gracefully contact down on the Argyle Worldwide Airport (AIA).
In a groundbreaking second that etched its mark in historical past, Rochell Roache-Lanza, the primary feminine American Airways pilot with Vincentian heritage, achieved a exceptional feat.
She efficiently piloted flight AA1427, a Boeing 737-800, from Miami to her beloved homeland, St. Vincent and the Grenadines with greater than 100 passengers on board.
Honored with a water salute
Because the Boeing 737-800 taxied to the airbridge at Argyle Worldwide Airport (AIA), Rochell Roache-Lanza, a 43-year-old native of Bequia, was met with a touching tribute.
A water salute, a convention reserved for vital aviation milestones, showered her aircraft with arching jets of water. It was a poignant image of recognition for her exceptional journey.
20 years of hovering heights
Roache-Lanza’s aviation journey spans practically twenty years. She honed her abilities and experience in Guyana and gained worthwhile expertise working planes in each Nigeria and the Caribbean.
Earlier than becoming a member of the ranks of American Airways, she made her mark with Caribbean Star, SVG Air, and LIAT, showcasing her unwavering dedication to the world of aviation.
A proud arrival: Witnessed by dignitaries and family members
Because the plane touched down at AIA, a number of high-ranking public officers, together with Roache-Lanza’s relations, gathered on the airport to bear witness to this historic second.
Amongst them, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves expressed profound satisfaction in Roache-Lanza’s achievement.
Prime Minister Gonsalves advised NBC Radio St Vincent and the Grenadines, that it’s a second of nice satisfaction for the nation.
He famous that whereas it could look like a small accomplishment, it’s of nice symbolic significance.
“You could 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 woman who may be very achieved and skilled,” Gonsalves added.
He emphasised that having a Vincentian pilot with such accomplishments, significantly as a lady, is a supply of inspiration for ladies and women throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
