Fastest Woman on Earth—70 Years Later

Jackie Cochran broke the sound barrier on May 18, 1953, confirming her place among elite test pilots.

Thursday, May 18, 2023 at 12:32 PM ET

Verified

Jackie Cochran broke the sound barrier on May 18, 1953, flying faster than Mach 1 and confirming her place among elite test pilots. [Credit: (National Air and Space Museum Archives, Smithsonian Institution]

Key Takeaways:

Jacqueline Cochran, born into poverty, became a highly accomplished aviator and the first woman to fly beyond Mach 1 in level, unboosted flight on May 18, 1953.
She was a key advocate for women in aviation, leading efforts that contributed to the formation of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II.
Mentored by Chuck Yeager, Cochran continually pushed boundaries, ultimately holding more aviation records than any other person, male or female, by the time of her death.

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To fly among the top test pilots at any stage of your career is an honor not meted out without a lot of hard work—proving not only one’s mettle but also diligence, perseverance, and inner strength. Those words especially ring true when speaking of Jacqueline “Jackie” Cochran, one of the most notable of that elite cadre.

On May 18, 1953, Cochran firmly established herself in history when she became the first woman to fly beyond Mach 1 in level, unboosted flight.