Educational Media Reviews Online

This film tells the story of Sabiha Gokcen, the first female combat pilot. Historical photographs and footage are strengthened by interviews with Sabiha herself, who died in 2001. She tells of how Kemal Ataturk adopted her when she was 10, and then opened the way for her to join the new Turkish air force. The film describes Ataturk’s belief in the importance of air superiority, and the high-profile role he developed for Sabiha. Viewers learn of her combat role in suppressing a rebellion, and her solo flight to a handful of European capitals in the late 1930’s. The final portion of the film shows former students discussing her legacy, and her honored place in the history of aviation. In 2001, Istanbul’s airport was named after her.

The technical quality is good. The scenes, footage, and interview pieces are well chosen. After an awkward beginning, the film tells Sabiha’s story in a straightforward, chronological manner.

The film is a paean to Sabiha Gokcen, and contains nothing approaching criticism. This is a valuable and informative film, but more of a tribute than a documentary. This makes is slightly less useful for the history classroom, but more useful in settings where the goal is to inspire women to achieve in male-dominated careers.

Recommended for classes on the history of aviation, or the modern history of Turkey.