Barbara Harmer’s story is one of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers—an inspiring example of how it’s never too late to follow your dreams, no matter the obstacles life throws at you. Her journey from a hairdresser to becoming the first woman qualified to fly the iconic Concorde is a testament to what passion, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself can accomplish.
A Humble Beginning
Born with no clear career path, Barbara Harmer left school at just 15, without any qualifications, and began working as a hairdresser. For five years, she styled hair, but as she honed her craft, she felt a yearning for something greater. Perhaps it was an innate desire to soar or just the need for a new challenge—but Barbara knew she was destined for more.
At 20, she decided to make a dramatic change. Applying for a trainee air traffic controller position at London Gatwick Airport, she set her sights on aviation, a field still predominantly dominated by men. While working at Gatwick, Barbara also began studying for her A-levels in Geography, English Law, and Constitutional Law, with a plan to eventually study law. However, as life often does, Barbara’s path took an unexpected turn.
A Bold Leap into Aviation
While working at the airport and preparing for her law exams, Barbara realized her true passion lay in flying. In a bold move, she took out a £10,000 loan to fund flying lessons. This was the beginning of her journey into the skies. After obtaining her private pilot license, she decided to pursue her commercial pilot license, a decision that would take her down a road filled with challenges.
Barbara completed a two-year distance-learning course and earned her commercial pilot license in 1982. However, the next phase of her journey proved to be one of the hardest. Despite her qualifications, Barbara faced rejection after rejection. She submitted over 100 job applications to potential employers, all of which were met with silence or rejection.
Persistence Pays Off
Her persistence, however, paid off. In 1984, after two years of struggling to find work, Barbara landed her first job as a pilot with a small commuter airline. But her journey was far from over. Later that same year, she was offered a position with British Caledonian Airlines, a move that would change her career forever.
In 1987, British Caledonian merged with British Airways, a pivotal moment that allowed Barbara to soar even higher in her career. Her skills and determination did not go unnoticed, and four years later, she was selected to train as a Concorde pilot—becoming the first woman qualified to fly the supersonic aircraft.
The Concorde Legacy
Flying Concorde was the pinnacle of Barbara’s career. For 10 years, she flew regular scheduled services on the legendary jet, a symbol of speed, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. Her role as a Concorde pilot was a trailblazing achievement, especially in an industry where female pilots were an exception, not the norm.
When Concorde was withdrawn from service in 2003, Barbara didn’t rest on her laurels. She adapted to new challenges, converting to flying the Boeing 777, one of the largest and most advanced commercial airliners in the world. She continued flying for British Airways until 2009, when she chose to retire voluntarily and focus on other dreams.
A New Adventure and a Tragic Diagnosis
Barbara had always dreamed of sailing across the Atlantic in her own yacht, a goal she began preparing for in 2013. But life, as it often does, had other plans. Unbeknownst to Barbara, she had developed ovarian cancer, which was slowly but surely taking its toll on her body. By the time the cancer was diagnosed, she had little more than a year to live.
Despite her illness, Barbara remained determined and positive, always keeping her can-do attitude. She passed away in 2011, at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire women and young people everywhere.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Barbara Harmer’s story is one of remarkable achievements against all odds. She defied expectations, overcame gender barriers, and navigated the challenges of an incredibly competitive industry with grace, grit, and an unwavering belief in herself. She proved that no dream is too big, no obstacle insurmountable, and no career path too unconventional.
Her legacy is a shining example for women and young people who dream of breaking into male-dominated fields, whether it’s aviation, engineering, or any other profession. She showed that it’s never too late to start, that failure is just a stepping stone to success, and that persistence is key.
Barbara Harmer’s life reminds us that dreams are worth chasing—and with tenacity and courage, anything is possible.
In memory of Captain Barbara Harmer, whose spirit continues to inspire us to aim high and never give up.