South Sudan Welcomes Second Female Airline Pilot

(COMOROS) – South Sudan has recorded another historic achievement after Arual Henry Akoon Agei became the country’s second female airline pilot. She follows Aluel James Bol, the first woman from South Sudan to qualify as an airline pilot and fly for international airlines.

Arual is now flying the Dash 8 Q100, Q200 and Q300 aircraft with Royal Air, a regional airline based in the Comoros Islands. The airline also operates flights to other destinations including Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. Her new role shows that South Sudanese talent is reaching international standards, even in fields that remain rare at home.

The first female pilot from South Sudan, Aluel James Bol, built a career with major airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines and Delta Airlines. Her journey made headlines around the world and gave hope to many young women. Arual’s success adds to this story and gives South Sudan another example of progress in aviation.

In South Sudan, the aviation industry is still male dominated. Very few women have been able to enter the field, partly because training as a pilot is very expensive. The cost of becoming a commercial pilot can reach around 150,000 US dollars, which equals about 690 million South Sudanese Pounds (SSP). This amount is out of reach for most families in South Sudan, making it very difficult for young women to pursue this career.

Arual’s achievement is therefore not only a personal victory but also a source of national pride. Her story shows that young women in South Sudan can aim for careers beyond traditional roles. For many, she has become a role model, proving that determination and commitment can break barriers.

Her success also comes at a time when airlines in Africa and around the world are calling for more trained pilots. As regional air travel grows, the demand for skilled pilots is increasing. South Sudan, with its young population, could benefit if more investment is made in training facilities for aviation and other skilled careers.

Arual’s story could encourage the government and private investors in South Sudan to consider setting up training schools in Juba or other towns. This would not only provide jobs but also reduce the cost of training abroad. It could also create opportunities for more young people, especially women, to join the aviation industry.

Arual Henry Akoon Agei has now joined Aluel James Bol in changing how South Sudanese women are viewed in aviation. Their combined achievements show that South Sudan has talent capable of making an impact globally, while also inspiring young women at home to dream bigger.