Ex-RAF pilot, 26, swapping the runway for a catwalk as she tries to land Miss England title

Maleha Khan, a 26-year-old former RAF pilot, is balancing her aspirations in aviation and STEM with a bid for the Miss England title. Khan, who holds a Master’s degree in Spacecraft Engineering, aims to inspire women in male-dominated industries by demonstrating that they can be both glamorous and professional. She currently works as a civilian pilot and a PhD researcher focusing on hydrogen-fueled rockets at Cranfield University.

Khan's passion for aviation ignited at age 15 after watching the Red Arrows perform. She subsequently earned flying scholarships from the Royal Air Force and other organizations, enabling her to pilot multiple aircraft and helicopters. She also served as a commander in an RAF University Air Squadron, leading 75 personnel.

Driven by a desire to combine her interests in flying and space, Khan is working towards becoming a commercial pilot, having already accumulated over 100 flight hours. She hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of perceived limitations. Khan's journey highlights the intersection of diverse fields and the potential for individuals to excel in multiple domains.