7Tammie Jo Shults (USA)

Tammie Jo Shults is a retired U.S. Navy fighter pilot and one of the first female fighter pilots in the Navy. She later became a commercial airline captain for Southwest Airlines. Captain Shults is best known for safely landing Southwest Flight 1380 after an engine failure in 2018, saving countless lives with her calm under pressure and exceptional skill. 

Why she stands out: Her bravery, professionalism, and poised demeanor—combined with her approachable, warm personality—make Tammie Jo a truly inspiring figure in aviation.

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