Lt Col Kgothatso Khunou: Breaking Barriers as SAPS' First African Female Chief Helicopter Pilot

Overcoming her fear, Khunou's aviation career took off, leading her to join the SAPS in 2014 as a junior pilot at the rank of warrant officer.

Lieutenant Colonel Kgothatso Khunou has made history as the first African female chief helicopter pilot in the South African Police Service (SAPS) Airwing, stationed in the Free State. She stands as one of only 17 female pilots across the nation, embodying the courage and determination that her name, Kgothatso, meaning ‘courage’ in Setswana, represents.

As part of Women’s Month celebrations in August, SAPS is honoring its women in blue, highlighting those who are trailblazers in their fields and who break barriers in traditionally male-dominated environments. Lieutenant Colonel Khunou is a shining example of such resilience and excellence.

Hailing from Rustenburg, Khunou describes herself as a "village girl" with a humble upbringing. Her journey into aviation was unexpected. Initially aspiring to a career in science, Khunou completed a National Diploma in Biotechnology. However, her path took a remarkable turn in 2010 when the Royal Bafokeng Administration offered her a scholarship to pursue a commercial pilot's license—a challenge she embraced despite a fear of flying.

Overcoming her fear, Khunou's aviation career took off, leading her to join the SAPS in 2014 as a junior pilot at the rank of warrant officer. Today, as a helicopter pilot, she performs critical duties including operational flights, providing aerial support to ground units, conducting stock theft and stolen vehicle searches, and assisting in search and rescue operations.

Currently, Khunou is deployed to Operation Vala Umgodi, which targets illicit mining activities across South Africa. She played a key role in a recent women-led Vala Umgodi operation in celebration of Women’s Month. On August 1, 2024, the team achieved significant success, arresting 178 illicit miners and seizing over 400 pendukas and other illegal mining equipment in Benoni.

Reflecting on her journey, Khunou says, "When you set goals, always tell yourself that the sky is not even the limit. I was once afraid of flying, but now I serve my country fearlessly as an SAPS helicopter pilot."

With her inspiring story and leadership from the skies, Lieutenant Colonel Khunou continues to serve the people of South Africa with dignity, honor, and pride, proving that no dream is too high to reach.