International Society of Women Airline Pilots
Inspire, Support, and Advocate
for female airline pilots
December
2021
Airline: Delta Air Lines
Crew Position: Captain
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Domicile: Atlanta
What is the year and location of the flight school you attended?
Vannakay:
1991, FlightSafety International, Vero Beach, FL
What airplanes have you flown during your career?
Vannakay:
EMB120, SF340, CRJ200, DC9, A320, B737, B757, B767, MD88, MD90, B717
Have you had/have any mentors throughout the years?
Vannakay:
Not really, just my parents
Vannakay:
My father was a pilot and we had an airplane growing up.
Do you have any future aviation goals you hope to achieve?
Vannakay:
I have been very fortunate in my career and have had the ability to accomplish so much. My greatest achievement was being the Part 119 Chief Pilot for USA 3000 Airlines, a position few women have held. In that role, I spent a lot of time in Washington DC working on several Aviation Rule Making Commitees (ARCs), including the Mentoring, Leadership and Professional Development ARC. I learned so much during that time.
For now, I am happy just to fly the line and mentor others.
Do you live in base or commute?
Vannakay:
I commute.
What have been some recent challenges you have faced?
Vannakay:
Fighting Breast Cancer
What would you say to girls looking to become an airline pilot?
Vannakay:
Go for it! It will not always be easy, but if you love it, it will be worth it.
What do you feel is a benefit to being an ISA+21 member?
Vannakay:
In my earlier years, ISA+21 was a great benefit to me as I was moving up the ranks. I learned so much being on the Board and the people I met were wonderful and so supportive. I met one of my closest friends while we were on the ISA+21 Board together, and we are still as close today. Now, I view my ISA+21 membership as a way to give back and mentor others as they work to build their career.
