Debby Rihn-Harvey, one of the most successful aerobatic competitors of all time, completed her career as captain of a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 last week. With an airplane mostly filled with her friends and family, Rihn-Harvey flew her last leg, SWA Flight 3060, on Thursday from the Valley International Airport (KHRL) in Harlingen, Texas, to the William P. Hobby Airport (KHOU) in Houston. Fellow USA Unlimited Aerobatic Team member Tim Just, who was a passenger on the flight, described Rihn-Harvey’s final SWA landing as perfect.
Top-Ranked Aerobatic Pilot Retires from SWA
Key Takeaways:
- Debby Rihn-Harvey, a highly decorated aerobatic competitor and the longest-standing U.S. Aerobatic Team member, recently retired as a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 captain.
- She amassed over 34,000 flight hours, participated in 15 World Championships, and was among the first female pilots hired by Southwest Airlines.
- Post-retirement, Rihn-Harvey will continue to be deeply involved in aviation through airshows, her flight school, serving on the International Aerobatic Club board, and mentoring aspiring aviators.
See a mistake? Contact us.
