Oana Andreea Ionescu, a patrol commander at the 'Aurel Vlaicu' Boboc-Buzau Air Force Training and Personnel Development Base, is the first female instructor on a jet aircraft in Romania. Her ongoing training, sacrifices and strong character have made her a model of professionalism, dedication, and excellence in military aviation.

Born in Slobozia, she considers Buzau her home. Driven by the desire to challenge her limits, she chose a military career, with aviation being the greatest challenge. She prepared rigorously, completing specialisation courses and master's programmes both in Romania and abroad.

'I saw the military career as a challenge and a way to be more independent, to step out from under the protective umbrella of my family, so I decided to attend the military college in Breaza. I don't regret this choice, and if I had to do it again, I would follow the same path. Aviation was the next big challenge. I loved the idea of flying, being up there, at high altitudes. I hoped I would succeed, despite the great anxiety that there would be no spots available for the pilot navigation specialisation at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Brasov that year. I was lucky, there were spots, and more than that, I was accepted. From there, I followed numerous specialisation courses, both in Romania and abroad, and completed master's degrees (one in airspace security at AFA and one in joint military leadership at the National Defence University),' said Captain Commander Oana Andreea Ionescu in an interview with AGERPRES.

Inspired by her mother, a teacher, and her colleagues, Oana Andreea Ionescu became the first woman instructor on a jet aircraft in Romania.

'At this point, I identify with the primary goal of the Base, which is to train military pilots for the Romanian Air Force. The desire to pass on knowledge is a family trait inherited from my mother, who is a teacher. My flight instructors, who performed their job with passion, also contributed to my development. This is where the idea of becoming like them started, to become a better pilot, so I could, in turn, pass on the knowledge and passion for flying,' Oana Andreea Ionescu explained.

Success in her career was not guaranteed, and only consistent training and sacrifices led to the expected results. She had to give up time with her family and friends, turning her sacrifices into satisfaction.

'The jet aircraft fascinated me from my first flight. It was love at first sight, and it will always remain in my memory. Time passed quickly, and I was captivated by how my instructor was able to control that aircraft in various maneuvers. Sacrifices were greater in the early years of my career, when the theoretical knowledge, regulations and procedures were being solidified. The main sacrifice was time - time spent with loved ones, personal time. There were countless hours of preparation, both on the ground and in the air, but just like us, time flies, and we don't really realise it. Then, as experience accumulates, when flying becomes more than just a passion, the sacrifice no longer feels like a burden but rather becomes a source of satisfaction. With every completed mission, every student who takes wing under my guidance, I am confirmed as an instructor and see my dream fulfilled,' says Romania's first female instructor on jet aircraft.

The fulfilled dream, according to Oana Andreea Ionescu, comes with perseverance. She has been supported throughout her career by her team. There was no competition with her military base colleagues, but rather a personal challenge.

'In my opinion, the military environment does not differentiate between men and women, chances are equal. As long as you have a strong character, perseverance, confidence and share the values of this system, you are the right person. Most of our successes are backed by the effort of a team and a mentor, a model who becomes a personal goal. The competition is more with yourself, which helps you become better and better. The new generations of military pilots have technology on their side. They have access to information, to further training courses abroad and to exchange programmes within NATO. All these, combined with a solid knowledge system and a desire for perfection, can only lead to success. Special situations can only be managed through thorough mastery of procedures, through simulator exercises and a lot of hard work. As instructors, we are by their side, giving them the confidence they need to perform all types of missions,' Oana Andreea Ionescu adds.

The patrol commander also finds 'the greatest sensitivity' in her family, which is the only environment that 'brings her down' from aviation. Yet, she adds, 'flying at high altitudes and witnessing sunsets and sunrises on the horizon of a clear sky' provides 'a sense of complete satisfaction and happiness.' 'We are given the opportunity to see and enjoy landscapes and moments that are simply uplifting. In those moments, we are certain that we have chosen the right profession, and any sacrifice was worth it,' she points out.

On the occasion of March 8, International Women's Day, the air patrol commander conveys that working hard any wish can be fulfilled.

'By nature, I am not a romantic person, but I believe that every woman deserves attention and is happy when she receives it. Any gesture that brings a smile is welcome. Keep your courage! There is no 'I can't.' Believe in your abilities, stay informed, and work to fulfill your desires, as the results and satisfaction are worth it,' Oana Andreea Ionescu tells all women who aspire to a military career.

Recently, the Boboc Air Base posted a message on its Facebook page on the occasion of the birthday of the flight instructor.

'An example of professionalism, dedication and excellence in military aviation. The first female instructor on a jet aircraft in Romania, she has earned respect through work, passion and perseverance. Assigned to the position of patrol commander at Squadron 2 at Boboc Air Base/Interarms Training School of the Air Forces, she successfully fulfills multiple responsibilities, proving day by day that limits are just challenges to overcome. In an area dominated by men, she manages to integrate perfectly into the team, thanks to her expertise and team spirit. Oana, thank you for your dedication and contribution,' the message from Boboc Air Base reads. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Florin Zafiu; EN - writing by: Adina Panaitescu)