Taking Flight: Ruby Corso’s Journey from the Classroom to the Sky

Ruby reflects on the journey so far...

I stumbled on this career by chance when planning my Year 10 Work Experience, and Mrs McDonald recommended I go to the RAAF base in Edinburgh. I met so many amazing people and I discovered that anyone could be a pilot - including me. Immediately after the last day of work experience, I drove straight to Parafield Airport to visit different flight schools.

After a few trial flying lessons, I quickly realised that I wanted to fly for the rest of my life and make it my career. I started flying in 2023 at the age of 15, trying to balance school, flying, and a social life. I originally had lessons once a fortnight but later switched to lessons every week. I completed my first solo flight at 16 and it was something I will never forget.

Next year I plan on completing the integrated course at my flying school (Aerostar), which will allow me to get all the required licenses and hours to work as a pilot. My training involves lots of studying before and after lessons, pre-flighting the aircraft and shutting it down afterwards, and having briefings with my instructor before and after. All of my lessons are unique, with some just being circuits around the aerodrome, while others include stalling the aircraft and then trying to recover as you plummet through the air. Upon completion of this course, I hope to graduate with my Commercial Pilot License, and Multi-Engine Instrument rating.

Unfortunately, this career is still very male-dominated: I am one of only three girls in my aviation studies class of over twenty students. It can feel quite daunting pursuing this career whilst also feeling added pressure to prove yourself to others. I have somewhat become used to it, but I still hope to have some other girls in my course, so I am not alone. I completed my AIF project this year on Women in Aviation, and hearing from other women about their treatment in the industry has made me want to fight harder to help other girls pursue careers in aviation.

Being in Year 12 has certainly come with its challenges, trying to stay focused on my academic subjects, while also studying for flying exams on the side. I have had to cut back my flying lessons to focus on school, but I still aim to study every few days to remain competent. Despite the workload, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I am able to do what I love, and one day I hope to fly my family and friends around (those who aren’t too scared).

Becoming a pilot has given me so many opportunities I had never even dreamed of, and I am so grateful for the constant support of my parents, teachers and friends. Saint Ignatius’ College has been very helpful along the way, assisting me in balancing my workload, visiting events like open days, and even allowing me to complete Stage 2 Aviation Studies outside of school. The skills that I have learnt at the College have been incredibly valuable, preparing me to become a hardworking, passionate individual that strives for success.

After completing my course, I will need to log a certain number of flying hours. I intend to gain experience in scenic flights and even shark patrol to increase my hours. From there I am setting my sights on more charter flights on bigger aircraft, hopefully gaining more ratings/licenses.

One day I hope to become a private charter pilot, flying around the world. I have investigated many options such as defence, commercial, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service, but I will keep my options open to see where this career takes me.

Ultimately, the sky is the limit!