Vera Krepely

Pioneering female aviator who broke gender barriers in Indian aviation during the early 20th century

Vera Krepely (1905-1989), born in Kolkata, India, was a trailblazing figure in aviation history as one of the first female pilots from South Asia. Against societal norms that restricted women's roles, she earned her pilot's license in 1932 through rigorous training at the Agra Flying Club - a rare achievement for women in pre-independence India. Her daring solo flight from Calcutta to Rangoon (Yangon) in 1934 made headlines across Asia, inspiring countless young women to pursue aviation careers.

Krepely's advocacy for women's participation in technical fields led to the establishment of India's first women's flying school in 1940. She later became a key advisor during India's post-independence aviation infrastructure development, helping design air routes connecting remote regions. Her memoir Flying Against the Sky remains a seminal text on gender equality in aviation. Despite her contributions, her story faded from mainstream narratives until recent feminist historiography revived her legacy. Today, the Indian Air Force annually awards the 'Vera Krepely Medal' to outstanding female cadets.