AHC 99s presents “Spirit of the WASP” Aviation Scholarship

The Austin Hill Country Chapter of the Ninety-Nines has announced its “Spirit of the WASP” Aviation Scholarship, which aims to offer an opportunity for aspiring and continuing pilots.  One of the scholarship’s goals is to help ensure the lasting impact of the WASP contributions to aviation.

Those familiar with the Women Air Force Service Pilots of WWII (WASP) know the significant role they played in Texas history, training on the rugged plains of Sweetwater, TX.  The WASP embodied courage, dedication, and determination, breaking barriers in aviation during their service.  As Ninety-Nines women pilots, its mission is to promote advancement of aviation through education, scholarships, and mutual support while honoring its unique history and sharing its passion for flight.

The scholarship award is valued to be up to $7,000 with the funds to be managed by the Austin Hill Country Chapter and directly distributed to the flight school or instructor.  The funds must be used for aviation training purposes only.  The recipient must use the funds within one year from the award date.  If any funds remain after the recipient completes their flight training, or if the funds are not used within one year and the recipient does not plan to pursue further certificates or ratings, the remaining funds will be returned to the chapter’s scholarship fund.

This scholarship is open to all applicants, with preference given to women residents of Central Texas.  The application deadline is April 30, 2025.

The Ninety-Nines is an international organization of licensed women pilots from 44 countries which includes thousands of members throughout the world who are professional pilots for airlines, industry and government.  The organization is a non-profit, charitable membership corporation holding 501(c)(3) U.S. tax status.

The Austin Hill Country Chapter of the Ninety-Nines (originally named Austin Chapter) was formed on August 22, 1964 by 15 female pilots in the Austin, TX area.  The group has participated in the Ninety-Nines tradition of air marking at airports in the area, partnered with local Girl Scouts and EAA chapters to teach and mentor youth, and much more to promote the love of flight.