Can Fly A Prince Around... But Can't Drive To The Airport

Contrary to its reputation as a fundamentalist Islamic stronghold in the Middle East, changes ARE coming to Saudia Arabia -- a series of reforms meant to bring it more in-line with modern times and mores. One sign of that progress is the fact the kingdom will soon see its first female pilot.

The Press Times of India reports Captain Hanadi Zakariya Hindi will soon pilot a jet belonging to Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed ibn Talal, founder and chairman of Kingdom Holding Company. She is expected to take the controls later this year, after she completes advanced training training program.

"I am busy building my flying hours and will be attending a short-term course to equip myself with more intimate knowledge of the jet owned by Prince Alwaleed," said the 26-year-old Hindi.

While Hindi's accomplishment is a sign of progress, there are still glaring discrepancies between Saudi Arabia and the rest of the western world. For example, while Hindi may soon fly an aircraft, she still won't be able to drive a car -- requiring a male chauffeur to take her to the airport, according to Arab News.

Still... any step forward is a step in the right direction, Hindi says... and she notes the changes aren't limited to Saudi Arabia.

"I recently met Aisha Al-Hamli, the first Emirati woman pilot, in Dubai," Hindi remarked.

One step at a time...

FMI: www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/sa.html