A commercial Pilot, Captain on the Q400 dash 8. Yolanda is from Malawi and currently working for Malawian Airlines. She had a passion for aeroplanes since she was six years old and never dreamt of being anything else other than a pilot. She completed her flying training in 2009 and started working for the national airline Malawian Airlines. She commanded the first all female crew flight in 2017. She loves flying and is always trying to be the best version of herself by learning from all those around her. In her spare time she enjoys aerobics, watching movies and taking vacation trips with her family. Yolanda is a role model to many Malawian young girls in the country she has done numerous talks to the youth about her career and continues to do so inspiring the nation.
Captain Yolanda Kaunda is the founder of Phantom Aviation, an initiative dedicated to promoting aviation awareness, inspiring young people, and creating opportunities for future generations in the aviation industry. As Malawi’s first female aircraft captain, she has broken barriers and become a role model for aspiring pilots, especially young girls interested in aviation.
Through Phantom Aviation, she has helped bring aviation closer to the public by organising the first airshow and consequence airshows in aviation that showcase aircraft, flying skills, and career pathways in the sector. The organisation’s airshows, held in partnership with aviation stakeholders including Puma Energy Malawi, have encouraged children and communities to explore careers in aviation.
- The first female Captain flying for Malawian Airlines.
- Made history in Malawi on 16th March 2017 operating an all female operated and supported flight from Malawi to Tanzania.
- Founder of Phantom Aviation
- Held the first fly In event in Malawi in November 2023 since the last public shows in the 80’s.