October
2022
Cathy Fraser
Airline: Air Canada
Crew Position: Captain
Aircraft: B-787
Domicile: Toronto, Canada
Where did you do your flight training?
Cathy:
I learned how to fly in Montreal, Quebec on a C-172.
Cathy:
A visit to the flight deck of a B737 when I was 10 got me interested.
What airplanes have you flown during your career?
Cathy:
Before the airlines, I flew PA-31, BE-90, 100, 200. I started at Air Canada in 1988 as a second officer (flight engineer) on the B727. I have flown the A320, B767 both as first officer and captain and the B787 as a captain.
Have you had/have any mentors throughout the years?
Cathy:
I have met a number of women who I’ve admired. Several of them were ahead of their time and were denied pilot jobs at the airlines. I met them through the 99s. My mom was encouraging and supportive. When Judy Cameron was hired at Air Canada, I saw it was a viable career option. She and Rosella Bjornson were trailblazers who I admired. Jean Haley Harper’s book on becoming an airline pilot helped to encourage me as well.
Do you have any future aviation goals you hope to achieve?
Cathy:
Getting checked out on a single engine airplane again. I am going to get my drone operator’s license for fun. I’d love to get to Oshkosh.
What have been some recent challenges you’ve faced?
As always, I love talking to all of the dynamic ladies who have achieved their dream jobs.
