Queen of the Air

This work is printed on luxurious velvet fabric, which has been meticulously sewn with feathers (symbolizing flight) and leather trim. Amy Johnson Queen of the Air Amy Johnson was a pioneering aviatrix who gained fame for her attempt to set a record for solo flight from London to Darwin, Australia. She earned her pilot’s license in 1928 and became the first British woman to obtain a ground engineer’s license as well. In May 1930, Johnson embarked on her solo flight to Darwin. Although she missed the record by three days, she achieved considerable popularity for her adventurous spirit and determination. In 1931, she set a record for her flight across Siberia to Tokyo, and in 1932, she broke the record for a solo flight to Cape Town, South Africa. In 1933, Katharine Hepburn’s character in the film “Christopher Strong” was inspired by Johnson. In an era dominated by patriarchal norms, Amy Johnson became a beacon of hope for many women striving to achieve their dreams. During World War II, Johnson flew as part of the Air Transport Auxiliary, which comprised experienced pilots who were ineligible for RAF service. Her role involved ferrying aircraft from factory airstrips to RAF bases. Tragically, during one mission in 1941, her aircraft crashed into the Thames Estuary. It is believed that she died in the crash; however, her body was never recovered.