About Me
Hi I’m Nia Gilliam.
People often tell me I have a special story to tell—and I believe they’re right. As one of the few Black women airline pilots in the United States, I’ve built a career defined by resilience, purpose, and an unwavering love of flying.
Inspiring Flight
A Flight Begins with a Dream and a Dare
“The sky isn’t the limit; it’s the launchpad for those who dare to dream beyond boundaries.”
– NIA GILLIAM
ORIGIN STORY
A Journey in Aviation
My journey started as a wide-eyed ten-year-old with big dreams of the skies. I went on to earn my bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management and Flight from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. From there, I began as a certified flight instructor, then became a traffic patrol pilot—flying radio personalities over city highways before achieving my goal of becoming an airline pilot.
Today, I hold the highest certification available to pilots: an Airline Transport Pilot license, with type ratings in the B738, 757/767, 777, 787, and A-320.
9/11 and the Memoir That Followed
But my story isn’t just about flying airplanes. On September 11, 2001, I was in the flight deck at Newark Airport, watching the Twin Towers burn. Navigating the skies that day—and the days that followed—shaped me in ways I’m still discovering. That experience is at the heart of my debut memoir, Cleared for Takeoff on 9/11: A Pilot’s Memoir.
ADVOCACY & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Lifting Others As I Rise
Beyond the flight deck, I’ve dedicated my life to uplifting others. In 2016, I co-founded Sisters of the Skies Inc., a nonprofit organization committed to increasing the number of Black women pilots in professional flight decks through scholarships, mentorship, and outreach.
Our work has been featured by Good Morning America, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and Bloomberg. In 2023, Sisters of the Skies received the prestigious Henderson Trophy from the National Aeronautic Association, now on display at the National Air and Space Museum.
Honors & Awards
Recognized for Impact
Henderson Trophy
Sisters of the Skies was the recipient of the Henderson Trophy in 2023, a distinguished award presented by the National Aeronautic Association and displayed at the National Air and Space Museum.
Tradition of Excellence Award
Awarded by Nia’s Alma mater, Oak Park and River Forest High School-an honor she shares with fellow alumnus Ernest Hemingway.
Professional Industry Innovator Award
Nia was a recipient of the Council of Urban Professionals Industry Innovator Award which celebrates leaders who drive innovation and create positive social and economic impact in their industries.
BEACON of Excellence Award
Designated by United Airlines, this award recognizes outstanding contributions to community impact and leadership within the airline and aviation industry.
Wells International Foundation Spirit of Equality Award
The Wells International Foundation honors individuals who advance equality and representation, especially across global and multicultural communities.
Egretha Award for extraordinary African American Women
Nia received the 2016 Egretha Award from African American Women in Business magazine, presented annually to extraordinary African-American women.
Beyond the Flight Deck
Nia's Battle with Breast Cancer
Life isn’t all about accolades. As a breast cancer survivor, I’ve also learned the true meaning of strength and resilience beyond the flight deck. I advocate for health and wellness among women, sharing the lessons I’ve gained from the skies and from my own healing journey.
Thank you for stopping by to learn a bit about me. I hope my story inspires you to pursue your dreams, no matter how turbulent the skies may seem.
