Valentina Grizodubova (27 April 1909 – 28 April 1993) was a Soviet aviation pioneer, record-breaking pilot, and decorated war hero who soared into history as one of the first female commanders in the Soviet Air Force. Born in Kharkiv, Ukraine, to an engineer father passionate about aviation, she took her first solo flight at the age of 21—launching a career that would shatter gender norms and global flight records.
In 1938, Grizodubova captained the legendary all-female crew of the ANT-37 “Rodina,” flying non-stop for over 26 hours across 6,000 kilometers from Moscow to the Russian Far East. The daring flight earned her and her crewmates the title of Heroes of the Soviet Union, the nation’s highest honor—making her the first woman to receive it.
During World War II, Valentina Grizodubova (27 April 1909 – 28 April 1993) was a Soviet aviation pioneer, record-breaking pilot, and decorated war hero who soared into history as one of the first female commanders in the Soviet Air Force. Born in Kharkiv, Ukraine, to an engineer father passionate about aviation, she took her first solo flight at the age of 21—launching a career that would shatter gender norms and global flight records.
led the 1st Ferry Aviation Regiment, overseeing the transfer of combat aircraft to the front lines—a critical logistical role that underscored her leadership and technical expertise. After the war, Grizodubova remained active in aviation and politics, serving in various governmental positions, including as a deputy in the Supreme Soviet.
Her legacy as a fearless aviator and a barrier-breaking woman in Soviet military and aeronautical history remains a source of inspiration. Valentina Grizodubova is remembered not only for her courage in the skies but also for forging a path for generations of women in aviation.