It was during EAA AirVenture at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. John and I were seated at a dinner table when a friend brought up a visitor. We were informed the visitor was a prince of Saudi Arabia—and what ensued is the kind of extraordinary conversation that can happen at Oshkosh. I am sorry to say that I did not do a very good job with the conversation; I had no idea what to say to a prince. I later learned he had been a fighter pilot, as well as an astronaut in a space shuttle mission. Had I known those things, I would have done a better job—I do have some idea of what to say to a fighter pilot and an astronaut. Our visitor was His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman, an ardent supporter of general aviation and son of the king.
Sky Kings: We’re Not In Kansas Anymore
Key Takeaways:
- The article describes the author's trip to Saudi Arabia, invited by Prince Sultan bin Salman, a strong proponent of general aviation (GA), to attend an airshow aimed at promoting private flying.
- During her visit, the author experienced Saudi culture firsthand and observed the nascent but challenging environment for women in aviation, despite recent societal changes.
- General aviation in Saudi Arabia faces unique obstacles, including high fees, complex regulations, and limited infrastructure, due to its historical development prioritizing military and airline aviation.
- Despite these challenges, influential figures like Prince Sultan and engagements with top civil aviation officials offer significant hope and a committed effort towards fostering the growth and understanding of GA in the country.
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