Rationale for Inclusion
- First Female Pilot for a Major U.S. Airline: In 1973, Warner made history by becoming the first female pilot hired by a major American airline, Frontier Airlines. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in an industry traditionally dominated by men and opened the doors for future generations of female pilots.
- First Female Captain of a U.S. Airline: In 1976, Warner became the first female captain of a U.S. airline, further cementing her role as a trailblazer in the aviation industry. Her promotion to captain demonstrated that women could hold and excel in leadership positions within the field. She further commanded the first all-female flight crew in history in 1986.
- Role Model and Mentor: Throughout her career, Warner was a strong advocate for women in aviation. She actively mentored aspiring female pilots, providing guidance, support, and inspiration. Her efforts helped many women overcome barriers and achieve their goals in aviation.
- Advancing Gender Equality: Warner’s success challenged gender stereotypes and helped to promote gender equality within the aviation industry. Her achievements showed that women were equally capable of performing in roles traditionally held by men, thus helping to change perceptions and policies regarding women in aviation.
- Educational Contributions: After retiring from airline flying, Warner continued to contribute to the aviation industry as an FAA examiner and aviation educator. Her work in training and evaluating pilots helped to maintain high standards of safety and professionalism in the industry.
- Inspiration for Future Generations: Warner’s pioneering achievements have inspired countless women to pursue careers in aviation and other traditionally male-dominated fields. Her legacy continues to encourage women to break barriers and strive for excellence in their chosen professions.

Biography
- Early Life and Education: Emily Howell Warner was born on October 30, 1939, in Denver, Colorado. From a young age, she was fascinated by aviation, and she took her first flight at the age of 17, which solidified her desire to become a pilot.
- Flight Training: Warner pursued her passion for aviation by taking flying lessons at Clinton Aviation in Denver. She earned her private pilot’s license in 1961, followed by her commercial pilot’s license and flight instructor certificate.
- Career Beginnings: Emily began her career as a flight instructor and charter pilot at Clinton Aviation, where she logged thousands of flight hours. She also worked as a flight dispatcher, gaining valuable experience in various aspects of aviation operations.
- Breaking Barriers: In 1973, Emily Howell Warner made history by becoming the first female pilot hired by a major American airline, Frontier Airlines. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone for women in the aviation industry and paved the way for future generations of female pilots.
- Legacy and Impact: Emily Howell Warner retired from airline flying in 1986 having logged over 21,000 hours but continued to contribute to the aviation industry. She passed away on July 3, 2020, but her influence continues to be felt throughout the aviation community.
- In her lifetime, Emily received a variety of awards and accolades:
- Induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame (2014)
- Induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame (2001)
- Induction into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame (1983) and Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame (2002)
- Her uniform hangs on display at the Smithsonian Institution’s Air and Space Museum.