Carole Hopson: Breaking Barriers as a Boeing 737 Captain

Carole Hopson’s journey to the cockpit is both unique and inspiring. As a Boeing 737 Captain for United Airlines, she stands out not only for her expertise but also for her age and background. At 62, she is one of the oldest African American female pilots in her region. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Hopson has always been fascinated by the skies. Now residing in New Jersey, she lives her dream every day.

Hopson attained her position at United Airlines on November 6, 2018, at the age of 58. She is among a growing number of over-50 individuals making notable career changes. Reflecting on her life, Hopson stated how proud her younger self would be of her achievements today.

“I even remember myself as a four-year-old, lying in the grass with my grandmother, looking up at the planes flying in the sky,” Hopson recalled.

Reaching her aviation dreams was no easy feat. Throughout her life, commitments such as family and finances delayed her aviation aspirations. However, her determination never waned. Operating a Boeing 737 requires extensive training in various technical aspects, a challenge Hopson embraced wholeheartedly.

Hopson’s journey faced additional hurdles due to societal norms. She is part of the 5.7% of female pilots holding Airline Transport Pilot certificates, which underscores the field’s male dominance. Despite obstacles related to race, gender, and age, she persevered.

Her first flight experience in 1992 was transformative. Her then-boyfriend, Michael, who became her husband, gifted her flight lessons. This sparked her passion for flying, which later became a lifelong pursuit.

Family commitments and career detours led her to professions outside aviation, though she continued to save for her dream. Eventually, she began flight instruction, even if it meant lesser pay than her previous corporate roles. For Hopson, the fulfillment she derived overshadowed financial sacrifices.

Despite the temporary suspension of her commercial pilot aims, Hopson obtained her Airline Transport Pilot license at 50. This enabled her to fly multi-engine aircraft and expanded her aviation skills. In her early 50s, she joined ExpressJet Airlines, continuing to advance her career.

Beyond piloting, Hopson is committed to mentoring. She launched the Jet Black Foundation, an initiative to enroll 100 Black women in flight school by 2035. The program includes teaching young women about drones, robotics, and aviation science, providing them with a foundation for future careers in aviation and STEM.

Hopson’s experiences have also led her to author “A Pair of Wings,” inspired by pioneering aviator Bessie Coleman. Her message to women is clear: success and fulfillment are attainable at any age.

“I always tell women, you can have it all. It’s just hard to have it all at the same time. And it doesn’t matter when you bloom — it just matters that you bloom.”