A remarkable achievement unfolded on October 30, 2025, when Shannon Russell, a 20-year-old student at the Sling Pilot Academy in Torrance, California, broke the world altitude record for women in her class of aircraft. Russell soared to an impressive altitude of 32,049 feet during her historic flight, marking a significant milestone that highlights both her personal dedication and the ongoing struggle for gender equality in aviation.
Russell, originally from South Africa, took off from the Torrance Municipal Airport, accompanied by Jean d’Assonville, the co-CEO of Sling Pilot Academy. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the rarity of women setting aviation records; the last woman to achieve an altitude record did so in 1936. Currently, women constitute only about 5% of all airline captains, according to a press release from Sling Pilot Academy.
The inspiration behind Russell’s record-setting flight was her desire to empower women in aviation. “The main reason I did this was purely for empowering women,” she stated. “How can women be inspired nowadays if no one’s done it recently?” Determined to make a difference, Russell shared her ambitious plan with d’Assonville, who supported her throughout the preparatory process.
To prepare for the flight, Russell undertook extensive training, which included flying the Sling TSi aircraft and obtaining her sport pilot instructor certification. She also focused on physical conditioning to manage oxygen levels and maintain a low heart rate, crucial for piloting an unpressurized aircraft at such a high altitude. Consultation with aviation doctors ensured that both she and d’Assonville had adequate oxygen supply for the duration of the flight, mitigating the risk of hypoxia.
On the day of the flight, Russell and d’Assonville had three oxygen tanks on board. They also coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration and Los Angeles International Airport to establish a safe flight route, ensuring that their aircraft would not interfere with other air traffic.
Russell’s successful flight not only set a new record but also underscored the mission of the Sling Pilot Academy. Jay Price, director of marketing and enrollments, emphasized the academy’s commitment to inspiring future generations to pursue careers in aviation. “Sling Pilot Academy engages in many activities to engage with our communities and to inspire people to enter a career in aviation,” Price noted.
In addition to her groundbreaking achievement, Russell dedicated her flight to the memory of her late father, Sean Russell, a former chief test pilot for Sling who tragically passed away in a crash involving a Sling aircraft in January 2023. She carried his ashes with her during the flight, making the accomplishment deeply personal. “It was very personal taking his ashes up there,” she explained. “He taught me how to fly in the Sling, and he was also Jean’s best friend.”
Despite the challenges she faced, including the loss of her father, Russell’s passion for aviation has only intensified. After receiving a scholarship to the North America Sling Pilot Academy in San Diego, she moved there from South Africa at the age of 18 and quickly established herself as a talented pilot.
The North America Sling Aircraft Academy praised Russell’s rapid ascent in her aviation career, noting, “At just 20 years old, Shannon Russell’s aviation resume is extraordinary.” Since beginning her flying journey at age 16, she has achieved numerous milestones, culminating in her record-setting flight that positions her as a role model for aspiring aviators.
Following her historic flight, Russell has returned to South Africa for a brief respite but is determined to continue pursuing her aviation ambitions. Her long-term goal includes building her own Sling TSi aircraft and undertaking a global flight. “I would love to carry on my dad’s legacy through Sling aircraft and promote aviation for young people,” she expressed.
Russell is also committed to advocating for women in aviation. As a Young Women in Aviation Ambassador and Female Youth Leader in Aviation with Aeronautical Aviation, she mentors young women aspiring to enter the field. “This flight was about expanding the performance envelope of the airplane and showing what’s possible for women in aviation,” she remarked. “I hope young girls see this and realize that the sky isn’t the limit – it’s just the beginning.”
Through her achievements, Shannon Russell is not only making history but also paving the way for future generations of female pilots, demonstrating that with determination and support, extraordinary accomplishments are possible in the skies.
