Fairfax high schooler launches podcast to inspire girls in aviation careers

Sanya Bhalla, a student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, launched the 'She Flies Podcast' in January 2026 to encourage girls to explore careers in aviation beyond just piloting or flight attending, WTOP reported.

Bhalla's interest in aviation began after participating in the Smithsonian’s She Can summer program at age 13, where she flew a Cessna, built rockets, and observed an all-female C-17 crew at Joint Base Andrews.

The podcast features interviews with women in various aviation roles, including Shaesta Waiz, who flew solo around the world in a single-engine plane, and aviation journalist Kathryn Creedy, sharing insights about their careers and challenges.

Bhalla aims to expand the podcast’s reach by involving more girls and hopes to establish 'She Flies' as a nonprofit organization, having already presented at Smithsonian events and hosted a booth at Reagan National Airport for Girls in Aviation Day.