Shahrzad Shams remembers the first time she sat in the cockpit of a single-engine plane, pushed forward the throttle, and felt her aircraft lift off into the sky.

“It was the most spiritually satisfying feeling that I had ever felt,” says Shams. “It was at that exact moment when I told myself that I would never stop flying.”

Three years later, in 2004, Shams made history by becoming the first female pilot to fly a commercial airline in the Islamic Republic of Iran. 

Shams’ journey to the skies is a story of courage, resilience, and overcoming extraordinary obstacles.

“Ever since I was a young child, I was extremely independent,” says Shams. “For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to do everything by myself. I never wanted anyone to help me.”

It was that fearless spirit that made Shams decide to change course at university from studying French to learning how to fly.

In a country where societal expectations often influence career paths for women, Shams encountered her first challenges in the professional sphere.

“I was told I could study flying but there was no guarantee that I could work as a pilot.”

Shams didn’t back down. She pushed forth and completed her education and flight training in 2004.

That same year a recruiting campaign started for female pilots.

Shams, who had just received her aviation degree, jumped at the opportunity. Soon after finishing the airline’s training course, she was hired as the first female co-pilot in Civil Aviation in Iran.

Shams says early in her career, her challenging of societal norms in Iran’s airline industry didn’t win her many friends. 

“It wasn’t easy for me. The pilots were all experienced and much older than I was,” says Shams. “Some of them refused to fly with me saying they didn’t have confidence in me in case of an emergency. None of that upset me. I knew I was doing something against the norm. It was natural that some people didn’t accept me. I always told myself to be patient, things will improve.”

Things did improve for Shams. Ten years after her first flight as a co-pilot, the airline hired her as the first-ever female airline captain. 

“I faced many challenges and barriers, but never for a moment did I stop,” says Shams. “I knew that if I gave up, I would make this path harder for others who were following in my footsteps.”

Today, an increasing number of women are following in Shams’ footsteps, Nearly a dozen women are flying commercial airlines in Iran. 

In 2019, Iran’s Zagros Airlines reported the first-ever flight where the pilot and co-pilot were both women. 

UNFPA recognizes the achievements of Shams and other Iranian women making strides in diverse fields. These inspiring individuals exemplify UNFPA's commitment to supporting the realization of the full potential of women and girls, promoting empowerment and opportunities for all.

Shahrzad Shams' story is an inspiration for younger generations to pursue their dreams and contribute to their individual and country's advancement.

“No one can stop you from doing what you want other than yourself.”