Chrysanthi Nikolopoulou becomes first Greek female F16 pilot

·

The first Greek woman to pilot an F-16 fighter of the Hellenic Air Force (HAF) is here and her name is Chrysanthi Nikolopoulou.

A 28-year-old from the northern Greek city of Kavala, Lieutenant Commander Nikolopoulou has engaged in aerial combat training and experienced the very high G-forces over the Aegean, alongside missions in international exercises like “Iniochos” for three years, involving numerous foreign units.

None of this would be possible without extensive training, which Nikolopoulou has had four years of at the Hellenic Air Force Academy, describing it as “unique” and “paramount” to the role.

“Flying a F-16 is, in itself, a unique experience, as each flight offers different emotions,” Nikolopoulou said.

Serving in the 110 Combat Wing, known as the “Ghosts,” the Greek officer upholds the motto “Machimotatoi oi ischýontes” from Aristotle’s “Nicomachean Ethics,” meaning “The brave are fearless.”

The F-16 pilot has also initiated a new legacy for females who are wanting to become a pilot or are already in training to do so.

“It is an honour for me, and I feel particularly proud to be the first woman in the F-16s”, Nikolopoulou added.

“I would advise girls who aspire to become fighter pilots to believe that they can become and achieve what they dream of. If they don’t dare in their lives, they will never reach what they truly love…”

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greece’s Deputy Foreign Minister meets Sydney’s Greek business and community leaders

Deputy Foreign Minister of Greece Ioannis Loverdos met with Sydney’s Greek business and community leaders at a Business Sydney breakfast.

Conquest unveils $900 million plan for former Cyprus Club site at Stanmore

Conquest has lodged plans for a $900m retail and residential precinct on the site of the former Cyprus Community of NSW Club in Stanmore.

Councillor Katerine Theodosis calls on Merri-Bek to preserve its proud migrant history

Merri-Bek Councillor Katerine Theodosis has tasked Council to lead a program which documents and showcases the city’s migrant history. 

AHEPA Australia launches ‘Saving Hearts’ fundraiser in support of Heart Foundation

AHEPA Australia will host a Saving Hearts Fundraiser on Sunday, October 12, at The Grand Roxy in Sydney in support of the Heart Foundation.

Former Sydney teacher Bill Kafataris jailed for child sexual grooming

Bill Kafataris, 57, has been sentenced to two years in jail after being found guilty of sexually grooming a child following a retrial.

You May Also Like

Greek team storm into All Nations Cup final after defeating Italy

The Greek team are through to the final of the All Nations Cup after defeating Italy 2-0 in the semi-final on Saturday, November 12.

Smoke blankets Athens as wildfires rage nearby

Greek officials warned people to stay indoors with their “windows closed” as poor air quality sees at least eight people rushed to hospital.

Food for Thought Network for Greek Australian women and friends holds Annual General Meeting

Food for Thought Network, an inclusive Greek Australian Women’s Network, held its Annual General Meeting online with a global audience.