Bangladeshi Teen Mahir Becomes Pilot in the United States at 17

Ahnaf Abid Mahir, a 17-year-old Bangladeshi teenager, has become the first Bangladeshi to earn a Private Pilot Certificate in the United States. After extensive training in Los Angeles, he passed his final examination on Sunday, 5 October (local time), officially earning his pilot’s licence.

Flying had always been Mahir’s dream. To pursue this goal, his parents, Moinul Haque and Ayesha Ruma, enrolled him at a flying training centre in Los Angeles when he was 16 years old.

Under the regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States, Mahir began his formal training after turning 16. For over a year, he repeatedly took to the skies, flying above the white clouds and returning safely to the ground.

At the age of 17, Mahir passed the final examination and received his Private Pilot Certificate at Los Angeles Whiteman Airport. This certificate allows him to operate a single-engine aircraft as a solo pilot, a milestone that brought him immense joy.

Mahir now aims to become a skilled commercial pilot, aspiring to fly for world-renowned airlines in the future.

In his statement after earning the certificate, Mahir said:“I am grateful to everyone who helped me become a pilot. My parents, in particular, worked very hard to support me.”

Mahir’s father, Moinul Haque, expressed his pride:

“I dreamed of becoming a pilot when I was young, but it never happened. My son has realised that dream at just 17. We are truly thankful to Allah.”

Flight instructor Ilyas Khan praised Mahir’s skills, stating: “The proficiency Mahir has developed is extraordinary. He has the potential to prove himself anywhere in the world.”

Mahir’s Journey at a Glance

Mahir’s achievement marks a historic milestone for Bangladeshi youth and serves as an inspiration for aspiring pilots across the globe.