Mandy's story
About Mandy
Mandy Hickson is a former Royal Air Force fast jet pilot who was the first woman to fly the Tornado GR4 on the front line. Over a 25 year military career, she completed 45 missions over Iraq, served as a Combat Survival and Rescue Officer, and navigated the challenges of operating in a high-pressure, male-dominated environment—all while raising a young family.
Her journey into the RAF was anything but conventional. After failing the pilot aptitude tests twice, Mandy joined as an air traffic controller—but refused to give up on her dream. Her persistence and real-world flying experience ultimately earned her a place on the RAF’s pilot training programme, proving that determination can defy expectation.
Mandy has continued to support the RAF through the Volunteer Reserve, flying with the Air Cadets to pass on her passion for aviation. She has been a school governor, a trustee of both the RAF Charitable Trust and the Victory Services Club, and has held several ambassadorial roles—including Aviation Ambassador for the Department for Transport and Ambassador for Girlguiding. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.
Always drawn to challenge and adventure, Mandy has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and trekked to Everest Base Camp, continuing to push her limits on the ground as well as in the air.
Inspiring leadership
Through experience
Mandy is a sought-after motivational and keynote speaker, renowned for her humour, passion, and ability to inspire audiences worldwide. Her compelling talks will equip you and your teams with strategies to help them thrive when the stakes are at their highest.
In her time as a fighter pilot, Mandy learnt firsthand the power of diverse thinking. Whether in the cockpit or the boardroom, it’s the range of experiences, expertise, and perspectives that arm a team to tackle the most complex challenges.
Analysis from many sectors has indicated that up to 80% of accident causes can be attributed to human factors. This means that as leaders, you need to understand the human dimension of your business – which factors enhance performance?
Inspire the next generation with an unbridled and unrivalled tale of Mandy’s ambition, courage, strength, and success.
Mandy is the author of the bestselling book An Officer, Not a Gentleman, which chronicles her inspirational journey to becoming a trailblazing female fighter pilot.
1986
Attends Air Cadets on the first day in history that girls are allowed to join. The Dream begins.
1991
Joins the University Air Squadron and gets access to free flying lessons. Female pilots aren’t allowed to fly on the front line.
1994
The RAF allows women to fly fast jet aircraft on the front line, and Mandy signs up. Initially rejected after repeatedly failing-and subsequently contesting-out of date entry tests, Mandy is allowed to join the RAF.
1999
First operational mission and flight in Iraq, flying the Tornado GR4.
2003
Becomes a mum to Jack and Jamie
2011
Retires from the frontline after 17 years of service and moves into a volunteer reservist (VR) role.
2012
launches new career as a motivational speaker
2020
Retires from the RAFVR
2020
‘An Officer, Not a Gentleman’: The Inspirational Journey of a Pioneering Female Fighter Pilot’ is published.
"London Stock Exchange Group (Having listened to many speeches in the past, your unique story into another world stood out in many ways. Talking to an audience full of risk takers and recounting the mission into Iraq and the pressures you and your team were under was incredible. That takes risk taking to another level!"
"Mandy was a truly inspirational speaker who brought her sense of humour and showed her amazing determination to achieve her goals. I would highly recommend her for people planning future events."
"Every person who manages people at the BANK should watch this video! “We had the BEST feedback about Mandy’s event. They absolutely LOVED Mandy. 115 minimum in the room + 50 people outside wanting to come in 2,329 on the webcast How would you rate this event out of 10? 91% rated this event 10/10. A net promoter score of 92%. (Qualtrics say above 80 is world-class)."
"Mandy was absolutely brilliant. Professional and personable to work with, and incredible on stage. She really listened to our brief and took on board the information I'd shared."
Accomplishments and ambassadorships
Gold DofE Award Recipient and Advocate.
of the RAF Charitable Trust
For the Department of Transport
Of 'An Officer, Not a Gentleman'
In the veterans business awards
At Winchester University
