Aiswarya Ashok interviews Samaira Hullur, one of India’s youngest commercial pilots, who turned her childhood dream into reality. In this exclusive conversation, Samaira shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced, and her message for aspiring aviators, proving that determination and passion can break barriers in the aviation industry.
What first sparked your interest in aviation, and how did you decide to pursue a career as a pilot at such a young age?
My interest in aviation was first sparked by the incredible lifestyle I saw in YouTube vlogs from the channel “Boeing Boy”. I was fascinated by the freedom, the constant change, and the thrill of being in the sky. I realised that being a pilot wasn’t just a job it was a lifestyle that was exciting and different from anything I had ever seen. It wasn’t the typical 9-to-5 desk job that most people do. I wanted to do something unique, something that would make me excited to wake up every morning. Aviation gave me the chance to live that out, to be part of an industry that was both dynamic and fulfilling. So, at a young age, I decided to pursue it not just as a career, but as a way of life that would offer me adventure and purpose every single day.
How did your family influence and support your journey toward becoming one of India’s youngest commercial pilots?
The first time the idea of becoming a pilot came up from my mom. She knew me better than anyone, and one day, she told me that my personality seemed like a perfect fit for aviation. She said, ‘You would hate sitting in front of a computer for hours doing something that doesn’t excite you.’ I’ve always been someone who thrives on challenges and excitement. My family not only believed in me, but they also went above and beyond to make this dream a reality. Finding the best ground, flying school, and arranging the funds for such an expensive course, they faced a lot of difficulties, but they never hesitated. They saw my passion and were willing to make sacrifices to support me. Their unwavering belief in me is why I’m here today, as one of India’s youngest commercial pilots.
Can you share some memorable moments from your training at VYAA and Carver Aviation Academy?
Training at both VYAA and Carver Aviation Academy is an experience that I’ll never forget. One of the most memorable moments was during my solo flight. The feeling of taking off alone for the first time was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, but the sense of accomplishment, when I landed safely, was indescribable. The instructors at Carver Aviation Academy were incredibly supportive and helped me build my confidence, and the camaraderie with my fellow trainees made the whole experience unforgettable. Each day was a new challenge, and overcoming those challenges is what made my training so special.
What were the most challenging aspects of your flight training, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced during my flight training was managing the pressure of being one of the youngest in the program. There were moments when I found myself at a crossroads, questioning whether I should stay on the path or get distracted because as a teenager, it’s easy to be pulled in different directions. Developing the necessary motor skills was also no easy feat. Every day brought a new lesson, and keeping up with the intense pace of the training sometimes felt overwhelming.
But I stayed focused on the skills I had already mastered, which gave me the confidence to keep going. I constantly reminded myself of why I was there to become the best pilot I could be. Additionally, I leaned heavily on my instructors at Carver for guidance and feedback, which helped me stay on track. The key was never giving up, no matter how challenging things seemed. With determination, persistence, and the support of my instructors, I was able to push through and stay committed to my dream.
As the youngest female pilot from Vijayapura, what message do you have for young girls aspiring to enter male-dominated fields like aviation?
My message to young girls aspiring to enter fields like aviation is simple: don’t let anyone or anything tell you that you can’t do it. The sky is not the limit your ambition is. We need to stop conventionally viewing these fields no field is truly male-dominated, they’re simply women-deprived, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits to anyone with the passion and drive to succeed. Trust in your abilities, work hard, and don’t be afraid to break barriers. When you believe in yourself, you’re already halfway to your goal.
What advice would you give to students and young people looking to follow their passions and overcome obstacles?
Don’t be afraid of challenges embrace them. Every obstacle you face is an opportunity to grow and learn. Keep your eyes on your goal, and remember that every small step forward, no matter how difficult, brings you closer to your dream. Most importantly, understand that the journey is just as important as the destination. We are all given just one life, and it’s short enough that we shouldn’t waste time on anything that doesn’t truly bring us joy. Pursue the passions that make you the happiest, that push you beyond your limits, and that fills you with pride. It’s not just about reaching the destination; it’s about the person you become along the way.
The journey of Samaira Hullur is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers. From discovering her love for aviation to becoming one of India’s youngest commercial pilots, she has proven that age and gender are no limits to success. The story of Samaira serves as an inspiration for young dreamers, especially women aspiring to enter male-dominated fields. With determination and a fearless mindset, she continues to soar higher, proving that the sky is just the beginning. As she embarks on new adventures, Samaira Hullur’s journey reminds us all to chase our dreams relentlessly and never stop aiming for the skies.
