The flight attendant who was rejected for not meeting the height requirement and went on to create her own aviation business

For one South African entrepreneur, empowering more women pilots isn't just a job—it's a true passion.

Sibongile Sambo dreamed of becoming a flight attendant for South African Airways, but unfortunately, she did not meet the height requirement for the role.

Determined to follow her dreams, she started her own business, selling her car and using her mother's pension funds to get it off the ground.

Today, she proudly serves as the founder of SRS Aviation, the first African aviation company led by women.

In 2004, Sambo embarked on her first flight mission with the South African government.

Since its inception, SRS Aviation has expanded to offer customized services, including helicopter rides, luxury tours, and flights to global destinations. Based in Johannesburg, the team has flown to places as far as the U.S. and Germany.

Entering a male-dominated industry

While the business is soaring today, it hasn't always been smooth sailing. For Sambo, breaking into the male-dominated aviation industry and ‘learning the language’ presented significant challenges.

Despite the hurdles, SRS Aviation earned its Air Operating Certificate from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), enabling commercial flights. The company has also trained three women to earn their private pilot licenses, who are now full-time employees.

The company has also formed a partnership with MCC Aviation, a prominent name in South African aviation. This collaboration provides Sambo with access to a fleet of aircraft, as well as vital technical and operational support.

“I’m where I am today because someone believed in me,” she shares. “Now, it’s my turn to give that same opportunity to others.”

Making progress across Africa

Last year, Ethiopia Airlines launched its first flight led entirely by a female crew, aiming to inspire more African women to pursue careers in aviation. Sambo hopes to see more South African women following suit and reaching for the skies as jet pilots.

SRS Aviation's current expansion plans include broadening its helicopter services and extending operations across Africa.

“What I’m most proud of is our success in breaking into this male-dominated industry,” she says. “Aviation is on the rise in Africa, and we’re poised to grow alongside it.”