Throughout history, women have broken barriers and defied expectations to leave their mark on aviation. From fearless pilots to trailblazing air traffic controllers, their contributions have shaped the industry and inspired generations to take flight. We celebrate the remarkable women who soared from Columbus, making aviation history right from our runways.
Helen Venskus
Helen Venskus was a pioneer in aviation long before she took her place in the control tower at Columbus (CMH). As a Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) during World War II, Helen piloted aircraft like the PT-17, BT-13, AT-6, and UC-78—proving that women were just as capable in the cockpit as their male counterparts.
After the war, Helen continued to break barriers, transitioning into air traffic control in the 1950s. At the time, she was one of only 60 women in the entire country working as an air traffic controller—and the only one with both a commercial pilot’s license and a multi-engine rating. She was also an active member of the Ohio chapter of the Flying Ninety-Nines, an international organization of women pilots.
Helen’s career was one of firsts, perseverance, and expertise. Her work paved the way for women in both aviation and air traffic control, proving that the sky was never the limit.
A look back: This 1959 photo captures Helen at work in the CMH air traffic control tower, where she continued to push the boundaries of what was possible for women in aviation.
The WASPs
During World War II, Lockbourne Army Airfield—now Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK)—was home to a remarkable group of women aviators who took to the skies in service of their country. In 1943, 17 Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) trained right here in Central Ohio to fly the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, playing a vital role in the war effort.
One of the most iconic photos from this era captures four of these trailblazing women—Frances Green, Margaret “Peg” Kirchner, Ann Waldner, and Blanche Osborn—walking away from their B-17, Pistol Packin’ Mama, a symbol of their strength and determination.
The WASPs were civilian pilots who took on critical aviation roles, freeing up male pilots for combat. Though their contributions were invaluable, they were not officially recognized as veterans until decades later.
The WASP Legacy:
- Over 1,100 women completed training and served as WASPs.
- They flew over 60 million miles across the U.S., ferrying aircraft, towing targets, and transporting personnel.
- 38 WASPs died in service, but they were not given military honors or benefits at the time.
- The program was disbanded in December 1944 as male pilots returned from combat.
- In 1977, the WASPs were granted veteran status, and in 2009, they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their contributions.
Their impact on aviation was profound, paving the way for future generations of women in the industry. Today, their legacy continues to inspire female aviators across the world.
Jerrie Mock
On March 19, 1964, a Columbus woman set out to change the world. Jerrie Mock wasn’t a famous pilot. She was a mother, an Ohio State graduate, and a woman with a dream: to become the first woman to fly solo around the world. And she did exactly that.
Taking off from Columbus (CMH) in her single-engine Cessna 180, Spirit of Columbus, Jerrie embarked on a record-breaking journey that took her over oceans, deserts, and jungles. After 29 days in the air, she landed back in Columbus on April 17, 1964, making history and securing her place in aviation’s hall of fame—accomplishing a goal that even Amelia Earhart had set but never achieved.
Jerrie’s story is woven into the fabric of our airport’s history. In December 2024, as we broke ground on our new terminal, we were honored to welcome her sister, Susan Reid, to CMH—a reminder of how Jerrie’s legacy still soars today.
The stories of Helen Venskus, the WASPs, and Jerrie Mock remind us of the courage, determination, and passion that define women in aviation. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations, proving that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
Their contributions have opened doors for countless women in the field, ensuring that their stories, achievements, and dreams continue to take flight.
Here’s to the women who soar—past, present, and future.
