Beth McQueen received little recognition for her founding of the Women’s International Association of Aeronautics. The association (WIAA) made tremendous contributions to aviation and women. Their motto is noteworthy – Wings around the world for peace, prosperity, and world friendship.
The Inspiration
In 1928, Beth attended the National Air Races along with thousands of other spectators. They took place on the grounds of Los Angeles’ Mines Field. She found the skills of the pilots impressive. There appeared to be only one element which concerned Beth McQueen. Undoubtedly, the notable absence of women pilots proved alarming. She discovered that they were considered too frail and unskilled. In fact, the idea of women flying airplanes seemed preposterous by most.
Beth lost little time finding a way to support women. If they endeavored to be accepted as capable pilots, Beth would unite them. As a result, she founded the California Women’s Aeronautical Association. Its purpose proved two- fold. The organization provided support for women pilots in all aspects of aviation. In addition, it aided in the recognition of women’s air records. The Federation Aeronautique Internationale, a record-keeping organization founded in 19o5, did not recognize women’s records.
An International Association
Clearly, a state organization fell short of Beth’s goals. To rectify this, she established the Women’s International Association of Aeronautics (WIAA) in May 1928. Stimulating interest in aviation by women proved to be their mission. This included the carrying of mail, passenger transportation, international races, and setting world records. Beth sent invitations throughout the United States and around the world to invite women to join. The only requirement to join was an enthusiasm for aviation. A member did not need to be a pilot. Beth believed that just talking aviation and traveling by air showed the general public that the airplane was safe.
Furthermore, this included encouraging husbands to seek a career in aviation. In addition, educating children about the benefits of flight became a priority. Beth traveled the world by air to promote the WIAA. Subsequently, she made numerous transcontinental flights in the United States. She flew to every major country in the world. In 1930, Beth became the first woman passenger to take an airliner from Mexico City to Juneau, Alaska. Her commitment to establishing world peace by being air-minded never wavered.
The 1929 Women’s National Air Derby
Without a doubt, organizing the First Women’s National Air Derby in 1929 stands as Beth’s most significant accomplishment. She saw an all-women’s race as an opportunity to showcase women pilots’ competency. According to Beth McQueen, “The public press generally censured this outburst of ‘feminism’ in a man’s world. I encountered derision and criticism as did the earlier trail blazer. Nevertheless, a short time later, the wisdom of my idea stood vindicated.” The race became a permanent fixture in aviation.