07/10/2026
Today we remember aviation pioneer Wally Funk, whose remarkable career helped open doors for generations of women in aviation, aerospace, and transportation safety.
A trailblazer throughout her life, Funk became one of the first women to complete the Mercury 13 astronaut training program, proving she had the skill, determination, and resilience. She never gave up on her dream to become an astronaut, finally reaching space in 2021 at the age of 82.
Beyond her achievements in aviation and space exploration, Funk made history as the first female investigator at the National Transportation Safety Board and the first female flight inspector for the Federal Aviation Administration. Throughout her career, she logged more than 19,600 flight hours, taught thousands of pilots, and dedicated her life to advancing aviation safety.
Wally Funk's perseverance, passion for flight, and commitment to safety continue to inspire aviators, investigators, and future generations who dare to break barriers.
We extend our condolences to her family, friends, and all who were inspired by her extraordinary life. Fly high, Wally.