Trailblazer Of The Skies

Commercial pilot Enid Otun flew in the face of every obstacle to achieve her aviation dreams

Sometimes fate sends you S unexpected opportunity, which can completely change the course of your life and set you on a path to an exciting future. For Enid Otun, from Norwich, comments made by the pilot of a pleasure flight would change an uncertain young woman into someone who was determined to seize the day, face challenges with an indomitable spirit, and rely on a wicked sense of humour to overcome adversity.

“The 15-year-old girl who went up in a plane at an air show in Kent in 1977, had no confidence and no sense of self,” says Enid, now 60. However, I sat up front asking the pilot questions and watching what he was doing. Suddenly, he asked me if! wanted to take the controls to see how it felt!” she laughs. It turned out to be the greatest feeling ever thrilling and terrifying to be in charge’ of a plane in the sky above the clouds. To my delight, he approached me afterwards to say I had really good handling skills for someone of my inexperience and that I should consider getting lessons. It was the first time anyone had ever told me I showed promise!” This pivotal moment which would shape Enid’s character and career came after a very difficult childhood. In 1962, her mother Kathleen was carrying a black child, conceived out of wedlock. Without the support of her family, the feisty Cumbrian lass weathered the prejudice and rejection with impenetrable defiance.