Anny Divya, made India proud when she became the youngest female commander of a Boeing 777 aircraft in the world. She is an inspiration for many as she chose a different path and profession to fulfill her dreams of becoming a pilot.

Anny Divya gained the title of commander at just 30 years old, overcoming her humble beginnings to realize her dream to become a pilot, a profession which met with resistance from her local community.

Divya who became a commander at the age of 30 was fortunate to have very supportive parents who stood by her even when a lot of people dissuade them from sending her for flying lessons. They also arranged to pay for the exorbitant fees so that their daughter can fly.

Divya, who hails from Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh was educated at the Kendriya Vidyalaya. Since her childhood, she dreamt of becoming a pilot and while her classmates chose to become engineers and doctors at the advice of their parents, Divya took the different path.

When Divya was just 17, she enrolled with the flying school Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi. Her hard work helped her secure a scholarship and she completed her training when she was 19.

Then she was employed by Air India where she continued her steady rise up the ranks, learning to fly a Boeing 737 in Spain before completing advanced training in London which saw her fly a Boeing 777, the world’s largest twin jet. 

She earned a degree in BSc Aviation while working with Air India. She chose the road less travelled and succeeded. She will be an inspiration for many.