In the early days of aviation, the decision to become a pilot was not one to be taken lightly. The women who embarked upon this adventurous career had to demonstrate boldness, dedication and patience. This lavishly illustrated book covers all areas of aviation and traces the careers of female pilots all over the world, from the first woman to board a plane in 1908 to present-day astronauts and pilots. The book contains 400 photographs, thorough text (including over 50 biographies of the most significant high-flying women) and detailed appendices