Mary Victor Bruce, who flew around the Empire State Building in 1930, dies.

Mary Victor Bruce, a bold aviator who captured the world’s attention when she flew her biplane around the Empire State Building in 1930, passed away on May 21, 1990. Her daring feat and subsequent career in aviation left an indelible mark on the history of flight. Today, we remember and honor her remarkable achievements.

Born in Aldershot, Hampshire, England, on October 20, 1895, Mary Bruce developed a fascination with aviation at an early age. As a child, she often watched military aircraft fly overhead, sparking her dreams of taking to the skies herself. However, it was not until the outbreak of World War I that she had the opportunity to pursue her passion.

During the war, Mary joined the Voluntary Aid Detachment, serving as a nurse in France. It was there that she saw airplanes up close, witnessing firsthand the crucial role they played in the conflict. Inspired by the bravery of the pilots she encountered, she made a promise to herself that she would learn to fly once the war was over.

True to her word, after the war ended, Mary enrolled in flying lessons at the London Aeroplane Club. She quickly proved herself to be a natural aviator, displaying exceptional skill and fearlessness in the air. Her determination and passion drove her to constantly push boundaries and strive for new achievements.

In 1930, Mary Bruce set her sights on a groundbreaking endeavor – flying her biplane around the Empire State Building in New York City. At the time, this was an audacious and unprecedented feat, capturing the imagination of people around the world. On July 21, 1930, with the Empire State Building towering above her, she took off and successfully completed the breathtaking flight. It was an astonishing accomplishment that solidified her status as an aviation icon.

Following her historic flight, Mary continued to make waves in the aviation world. She set multiple records and achieved numerous aviation “firsts.” Notably, she became the first woman to fly solo from England to Japan, covering a distance of over 12,000 miles in 11 weeks. Her fearless spirit and unwavering determination made her a role model for aspiring female aviators everywhere.

Mary’s contributions to aviation did not go unnoticed. She received several prestigious awards and honors throughout her career, including the Harmon Trophy, which recognized her outstanding achievements in intercontinental aviation. Her groundbreaking flight around the Empire State Building left an indelible mark on aviation history and paved the way for future generations of female aviators.

Mary Victor Bruce’s passing on May 21, 1990, marked the end of an era. Her unwavering passion for aviation and fearless pursuit of her dreams serve as an inspiration to us all. Her legacy lives on through the countless women and men who continue to push the boundaries of flight and strive for new heights.

As we reflect on Mary Bruce’s life and accomplishments, let us remember the courage, tenacity, and spirit she embodied. May her legacy continue to inspire and empower generations to come, reminding us that with dedication and belief in oneself, anything is possible.